Stone Terminology & Jargon Explained

When it comes to stone for landscaping, paving, and walling, the terminology can often be a little overwhelming if you’re new to it. Whether you’re looking to understand paving stones, walling options, or even rockery pieces, this guide breaks down the most common stone terms you’ll come across.

Calibrated

Refers to the thickness of the stone. Calibrated stones are cut to a consistent thickness, usually with a tolerance (or leeway) of about 5mm. This makes the installation easier and gives a more uniform finish.

Flagstones

Large, flat stones traditionally used for paving patios, pathways, or courtyards. Flagstones can be riven, sawn, or tumbled depending on the desired finish and texture.

Sawn edge

When stone has been cut neatly to size using a saw, creating clean and straight edges. Sawn edges are often seen on modern or contemporary paving for a sleek, uniform look.

Chiselled edge (also known as fettled or natural edge)

Refers to stones that have been hand-finished with a chisel and hammer. This method gives the stone a more rustic, natural appearance, with soft, uneven edges. This is commonly seen on more traditional or natural styles of flagstone.

Tumbled

Stones that have been placed in a large, slow-moving machine (similar to a cement mixer) that rounds off edges and smooths surfaces. This gives the stones an aged, softer appearance, perfect for creating a more rustic look.

Riven

Riven refers to stone that has been split along its natural layers, creating an uneven, textured surface with natural ridges and dips. It gives a more traditional, organic look, ideal for rustic projects.

Sawn

Stone that has been cut smooth on all sides, often with a flat surface and edges. Sawn stone, which can also be referred to as “sawn six sides,” has a more contemporary look, though it’s not slippery, as some might think.

Honed

After the stone is sawn, the surface is sometimes “honed” (or sanded) to make it smooth. This process creates a sleek, matte surface with a dull sheen rather than a glossy shine, often seen in contemporary designs.

Cropped

This refers to stone that has been roughly cut into regular-sized pieces using a large guillotine, commonly used for walling or setts. Cropped stone maintains some of its natural ruggedness but is easier to work with.

Dressed

“Dressing” refers to further refining the stone after it has been quarried. This can include cutting, chiselling, polishing, or sandblasting to give the stone a more finished appearance.

Coursed

Refers to a stone wall that is built in distinct layers (or “courses”) of similarly sized stones. This gives the wall a more structured and formal look compared to randomly laid stones.

Sett

Small, brick-like paving stones, sometimes referred to as paving cobbles or bricks. Setts can be sawn or cropped and are often used in driveways or pathways. Setts are durable and can create traditional or modern patterns. View Setts.

Reclaimed stone

Stone that has been salvaged from old sites, like public buildings or high streets, and reused in new projects. Reclaimed stone has a weathered, historic look, making it highly sought-after for its eco-friendly appeal and character.

Knapped

The process of breaking flint or similar stone to expose its inner, often more colorful or textured core. Knapped flint is typically used for traditional walls or decorative purposes. View Knapped Flint.

Sealing

Sealing stone involves applying a protective layer that helps preserve its appearance and protects it from moisture, moss, and algae. While sealing is not always necessary, it’s recommended for darker paving stones to maintain color and prevent fading. Find out more about aftercare here

Efflorescence

A white, powdery residue that can appear on stone, brick, or concrete surfaces. It occurs when water evaporates and leaves behind mineral deposits. While it can look unsightly, efflorescence can be easily cleaned away.

Bullnose

A rounded edge often used in steps or coping stones to create a smooth, rounded finish. Bullnosing gives a refined, polished look and adds a safety element by removing sharp edges.

Split-faced

Stone that has been split to reveal a rough, textured surface. This is often used in walling to create a rustic or natural appearance. View Here

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