The Deepest “Quarry” on Earth
Monarch Stone International found a recent news article that discusses the quest for drilling deep into the earth’s mantle. Scientists hope to retrieve the deepest types of rock ever extracted from beneath the seabed. The plan is to set a drill rig in the Pacific Ocean, somewhere near Costa Rica. Monarch Stone International is known [...]
Coverings 2011
Over 1,000 stone and tile industry vendors from around the world, gathered in Las Vegas last week for Coverings Tile and Stone Show 2011. Monarch Stone International met with companies representing beautiful stones, unique stone finishes and related products and attended seminars on subjects that expand our knowledge and service. We’re looking forward to offering [...]
Cobblestone Trivia
Cobblestones have been used for paving for more than 500 years. The word cob in Old English was a “rounded lump” . “Cobble” appeared in the 15th century adding the suffix “le” to “cob”, and meant a small stone rounded by the flow of water.
The Art of Stone Carving
The National Cathedral in Washington D.C. is a majestic Neogothic structure made mostly of Indiana Limestone. The cornerstone was laid back in 1907 and it is still a work in progress. Sean Callahan is the official stone carver responsible for the ongoing creation of statues and dimensional work. It’s not often one gets to see a stone carver in action.
Budget For Hardscape With Stone
We have clients who experience cost overruns when building or remodeling a home. This may leave the landscape plan receiving a smaller allocation of resources. There are affordable natural stone options. Consider quality landscape design incorporating hardscape with genuine stone, in key areas. It can be a modest investment, or an extravagant one, but it [...]
This planet … is hiring
Probably one of the most thought provoking messages we’ve come across on social / environmental responsibility. “You Are Brilliant and The Earth Is Hiring” by Paul Hawken - environmentalist, author and entrepreneur. Hawken’s speech is…”as good for the building industry — as for anybody living, for that matter.” In his opinion, working for the earth [...]
Stone Sealants
There are many natural stones on the market. Depending on where and how the stone is used, will determine whether or not it needs to have a sealant applied to keep moisture from penetrating. Consult your installer, stone supplier or sealant representative for your specific stone type. The general rule of thumb, if you walk on it, or water can get to it, you should probably consider applying a sealant.
Tips For Hardscape Snow Removal
We don’t have snow here in sunny Southern California, but unless you live in a cave, most folks know that many areas from the Midwest to East Coast have received more than their fair share lately ! Came across some helpful advice from the Hardscape Edge regarding the type of shovel tip to use for [...]
Completed Antique Cobblestone Installation, Napa CA
A breathtaking location, with gorgeous Tuscan inspired architectural design. Greeted by a 10,000 sq.ft. approach and circle driveway using authentic 200 + year old antique ‘Sidewalk’ cobblestone supplied and installed by Monarch Stone International, it is impossible to tell whether you are in California or Italy. The driveway specifications called for antique sandstone ‘Sidewalk’ cobble; [...]
Reclaimed Antique Cobblestone Installation
IN PROGRESS: 10,000 sq.ft. of Historic European Cobblestone, antique sandstone cobblestone. This is a very special and limited collection known as “Sidewalk Cobble”. Monarch Stone Int’l is also managing the installation on this incredible wine estate. The cobblestone was guillotined to approx 2″ for a cement base installation. Here is a peek at the almost [...]