Many people choose stone from a small sample, then discover on delivery that colour and veining differ from what they imagined. Viewing the full slab is the single most important step. What you are checking is not simply whether it looks good, but vein direction, batch variation, repairs, gloss uniformity and how it will look once laid out.
1) Vein direction, which determines book-matching and vein-matching results. 2) Colour variation, since different batches of the same variety can differ markedly in background tone. 3) Cracks and resin repairs, which are normal in marble - check they look natural. 4) Gloss, whether polished surfaces are even with no dull patches. 5) Defects, including the distribution of pores, colour spots and black dots.
State "same batch" and "book-matched from one slab" when ordering, and ask for factory dry-lay photographs before delivery. Large projects must reserve sufficient quantity up front to avoid mid-project top-ups from a different batch. We can hold stock from one batch and supply layout photographs for approval.
Yes. A sample is one corner of a slab and cannot show the veining distribution or colour range of the whole piece. Always view the full slab after seeing samples, or ask for slab photographs and layout drawings. If visiting is difficult, we can send free samples.
View in both natural light and your site lighting. Look at the slab standing and lying flat, since direction changes the look. Bring site photos, wall colour chips and fabric swatches to compare. If you need matching, allow time to review the dry lay rather than a single piece.
Not recommended. A sample is one corner of a slab and cannot show overall veining or colour range. View the slab or request slab photos and layout drawings; free samples can also be sent.
Specify one batch on the order and request factory dry-lay photos for confirmation. Large projects should reserve full quantity up front to avoid mismatched top-ups.
No. Natural marble commonly has fissures and pores, and resin filling is standard practice. What matters is that the repair looks natural and does not affect appearance or strength.