Dimension stone is any type of natural rock material that is
quarried in order to make blocks or slabs of rock that are cut
to specific sizes (width, length, and thickness) and shapes.
Dimension stone is used because it is durable, strong and
attractive. It is usually important that they can be polished.
The rocks chosen for dimension stone include all rock types
(igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary). The most important
rocks used as dimension stone are granite, limestone, marble,
sandstone, and slate. Certain softer rocks such as alabaster
(massive gypsum) and soapstone (massive talc) can also be
considered dimension stone. The states usually producing the
most dimension stone are Indiana, Vermont, Georgia, and
Wisconsin. Based on tonnage, granite usually accounts for the
largest amount of dimension stone production each year.
Limestone production is next, followed by sandstone, quartzite,
marble, slate, and miscellaneous stone. Dimension stone is also
imported from Italy, India, Canada, Spain, and other n