Veining is fascinating, and its intricacies are part of what attracts people to different stone materials. Looking at veining in a natural stone sample is the one striking feature that many people find hard to resist because of the earthy yet luxurious look that veining brings to most any stone that contains it.
Actual veining refers to the long, curvy and zigzagging lines that crisscross and cut through natural stone pieces. In describing veining from a geological standpoint, the term refers to the actual veins as layers or sheets of minerals that have crystallized inside of a rock. The minerals have been placed there through a flow of water that eventually evaporates and leaves behind the mineral particles. The remnants or mineral traces are elongated and can have varying widths and various branches.
Veins are categorized, and two major ones include:
1. Open-Space Filling
Open space filling happens through low pressure where the mineral deposits distribute themselves within certain distinct areas of a stone and continue to fill any spaces that are open.
2. Crack-Seal Growth
Crack seal veins happen faster through higher pressure that creates large open spaces within a stone. The minerals are deposited within the spaces and come to rest once water and other liquids have evaporated.
Veins are also categorized as asymmetrical and banded. Asymmetrical veins have layers of contrasting materials on each of the sides of the vein walls, while banded veins have layers of differing materials that run alongside or parallel to the vein walls.
Veining and Cuts
In addition to vein types, the way that veining is shown in a stone slab depends on the cut. There are vein-cut stones and cross-cut stones. A vein-cut goes against the vein, and the veins in the stone will have the appearance of elongated lines that go over the stone in a lengthwise fashion. Cross-cut stones will contain veins that are cut right within the vein, which will give the veins an appearance of swirl-like patterns as opposed to lengthy lines. This allows for a more vivid appearance of the various colorations that exist within the stone.
Stone Vein Colorations
The varying colors of the mineral deposits in stone can go from a myriad of hues that include red, green, purple, gray, black and even gold. Granite is a good example of natural stone that can have both flecks of color and beautiful, elongated veins. Other stones can have differing types of veining. Marble pieces can be seen with thick and dark veining, while others display fine veining thatis lighter in color. The veining color will be connected with the area where the stone was formed and the types of minerals located there.
Veining is one indicator of a natural stone’s character, which can help consumers decide what they like in a natural stone. With the range of color hues available, and the one-of-a kind patterns of long and lean and full and swirling, most anyone can get an idea of how veining can enhance natural stone and the space that it occupies. Should you have further questions about the different vein types and cuts, or are interested in looking more closely at natural stone selections, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the information you need.