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quarry methods

Stone Conversations : Archive 9 : Message 00681

From: "George Graham" <georgergraham@zzzzzzzzzzz>
Date: Thu, 15 Sep 2005 17:50:11 -0400
Subject: quarry methods

John,
I've seen stone that was stained from water that seeps from the overburden,
and runs down the sides. If there is a lot of iron in the soil and water it
can leave a rusty stain. Sometimes its just the nature of the stone to
oxidize when its exposed to the air and water. After you visit a lot of
quarries , or get real familiar with one , you learn its problems.
The local stone here in western NY , sandstone, limestone and gypsum are
affected by esposure to the sun , air and water. The worst stains I've seen
on quarry stone come from oil spilled from some piece of equipment.
Sue pointed out that tapping a stone with a chisel and getting a clear
ringing sound indicates good stone is dead on the money. But I have run
across some pieces that were good for carving but did not ring well,at all.
Anyone who has a chance to visit a quarry, should. It's facinating to me to
see how the stone lays in its natural state.
I know a guy who would get big chunks of alabaster , and test them out with
a 10lb. sledge hammer. If it held together, it passed. I personally thought
he ruined a lot of good stone!
Good luck,
George Graham

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