How to Use Sample Boards in Stone Selection

Choosing natural stone is a hands-on process. Photos and finished projects can provide inspiration, but nothing replaces seeing and feeling the material in person! That’s where sample boards, available at Authorized Dealer locations, come in.

In this video, we walk through how to use sample boards effectively, and why they’re such an important part of selecting the right stone for a project.

FAQ with our CEO, featuring how to use sample boards in natural stone selection

Why Do Sample Boards Matter?

Color, texture, and shape can shift from piece to piece, which is part of what makes it so appealing and also what makes selection important. Sample boards give you a clear, curated view of how a specific collection and pattern will look when installed. They help bridge the gap between a small sample and a finished project.

Here's What You're Looking for:

When reviewing a sample board, focus on the overall impression rather than individual pieces.

• Color Range: Notice the full palette — light, dark, and mid tones — and how they work together.

• Texture & Depth: Look at how the stone sits and how shadows create dimension.

• Pattern & Layout: Pay attention to how the pieces are arranged, and how that pattern will translate across a larger surface.

The goal is to understand the balance and variation of the material for the ultimate in project satisfaction. Sample boards are most effective when paired with guidance... Our Authorized Dealers can walk you through the selection process, answer questions, and help you choose a stone that aligns with your design goals and application. To help you locate the nearest Authorized Dealer to you, let's fill out this short form!