Stone Sourcing Services

Sample Coordination

Sample Coordination structures a request for the right physical or current-lot reference at the right decision stage. A small sample can show color, finish and mineral character, but it may not represent full-slab movement or lot range. The request should identify material, finish, lot, sample purpose, recipient, deadline and acceptance record.

Choose the sample purpose

A reference sample supports early material comparison. A current-lot sample supports selection against available material. A finish sample establishes a fabrication target. A mock-up tests a larger composition or assembly. Label the purpose clearly so the project team does not treat an early generic fragment as approval of final slabs, vein layout, production finish or installed performance.

Connect the sample to its identity

Record commercial name, supplier, quarry or origin where relevant, block or lot reference, finish, cut direction, treatment, sample dimensions and date. Photographs should include the label and a neutral scale or lighting reference where practical. If a sample is retained as the acceptance standard, document who approved it and what range of variation remains acceptable.

Plan limitations and logistics

Natural stone variation may exceed what a small sample can show, and transit can delay or damage samples. Specify recipient, address, contact, customs information if required, needed date and whether return is expected. For large-area or movement-led selections, combine the sample with current full-slab imagery, layout review and written acceptance criteria before fabrication.

Written confirmation

What to include in the next brief.

  1. State the sample purpose, material, finish, lot and required physical dimensions.
  2. Provide recipient, address, contact, customs needs and decision deadline.
  3. Record sample identity, treatments, date, reviewer and acceptable variation.
  4. Pair the sample with current-lot images, layout and applicable technical documents.

Evidence basis

Reviewed sources

Sources support the visible general guidance. They do not approve a selected product, lot, assembly, fabrication method, installation or commercial offer.

  1. Dimension Stone Design Manual Natural Stone Institute

    Stone selection, sample and installation coordination context.

  2. Natural Stone Care and Cleaning Natural Stone Institute

    Stone and finish identification context for representative samples.

Project inquiry

Turn this guide into a written project brief.

Include the application, material direction, dimensions, quantity, destination, needed date and required evidence. Current products, lots, documents, availability and commercial terms are confirmed in writing.