Granites

A2Z offers a wide selection of the finest granites available, sourced from as far away as China and South Africa to as close as our own quarry. We can supply, machine and deliver finished stone to almost any size.

We stock numerous granite colors that cover grey, black, red, and pink, including many custom colors. Remember when selecting a granite for an engraved work it is generally necessary to choose a dark or black granite. These granites are best for the application of etching as they provide enough contrast for the design and the quality is fine enough to insure a good engraving and legibility.

Below is a listing of some of the granites that we can provide. To view a granite sample click on the granite's name or it's picture to view an enlarged version.

Engraving and Etching

Engraved stone provides not only a story but a sense of wonder and permanence as one touches the cut edges of solid rock. A black and white historic photograph engraved in granite is displayed with an elegance and durability only nature can provide.

Nature has many beautiful substrates for engraving, each making a deep connection to the surrounding environment. As an interpretive message, a monument of recognition or a memorial to persons, events or nature, engraved stone becomes a work of art.

Photo Engraveture

Photo Engraveture is a term used to describe high-resolution engraving through the use of computers, digitally produced film, polymers and abrasives. This process is capable of reproducing black and white halftone images and line-art with incredible detail. An experienced engraver can engrave text as small as 9 points or a line as small as .5 of a point.

A photographic image is reproduced at a 65 line screen, the equivalent to an image in the newspaper. This is virtually a photograph in stone, surpassing previous engraving limits by more than 75% and setting new standards for stone engraving. The image is permanent because it is engraved into the surface of the stone. The effect that makes the image highly visible is the contrast of the reflected light from the engraved stone to the smooth finish of the uncut stone.

Black granite provides the best surface for photo engraveture. The grain structure in selected black granite is very fine, providing a superior background for details. Images and text can be rendered on a background that is either a glossy black surface with text showing as the white-gray of natural stone, or a white-gray engraved background, leaving the image and text as the polished black surface of the granite. The size of an engraved project depends on the ability to handle the large pieces of stone. Several panels can be used together to create a large project.

Photo engraving on stone requires a smooth finish. It can be a "honed", matte finish, or it can be a highly polished surface. The actual depth of the engraving is approximately 3mm. When there is a need for more deeply engraved text or line-art, the engraving process is adjusted. Photographs cannot be rendered with a deep engraving. Line-art and larger text are most suitable for deeper engraving. The width of line and distance between lines determine the depth of the engraving. Specially designed lithichrome color tints may be applied to an engraving for a highlight. The results of photo engraving on different types of stone may vary.