Does ‘Natural’ Really Matter?

In the not-too-distant past, I heard a presenter question whether it is really accurate to use the term “natural stone” anymore. He pointed out that a huge number of stone slabs coming into the United States are altered in one way or another – via resination or by the use of mesh backers, etc. He didn’t make a judgement call and actually praised the value of these methodologies as improvements to the slabs. It was the second time I’d heard someone say that the majority of granite slabs are altered.

I also noticed a MIA blog entry  that touched ont he same topic, which actually put forth what it defined as “natural stone.” It was very interesting to read, but really, it seems more of an intellectual debate than a practical one.

Ultimately, the term natural is used as a descriptor to describe quarried slab products from man-made ones, right? What really matters is that a good product is used and that the person paying the bill is happy with the look and quality – regardless of how much it has been “altered” or how “natural” it is.

There is no doubt that granite is a beautiful product with a very appealing look and suitable qualities to match its aesthetics. Rather than debate its “naturalness,” which seems like a red herring, energy might be better spent highlighting its strong points.