Unboxing Your Stone Sample: What to Look For

When your Stoneyard® stone sample arrives, it’s more than just a box—it’s your first glimpse into how natural stone veneer can transform your space. Here’s what you’ll find inside and how to make the most of your sample.

What’s Inside the Box

Sample Board: Each board includes three pieces of natural thin stone veneer. The pieces are trimmed slightly to fit, but we leave a natural edge so you can see exactly what the stone looks like pre-installation.
Product Spec Sheet: Flip the board over, and you’ll find detailed specifications for the product.
Catalog: Every box includes our catalog so you can browse other styles, colors, and collections.

Evaluating the Stone on the Board

The way the stone is presented on the sample board can help you visualize different installation options:

Dry Joint Installation: Stones are placed tightly together without mortar joints, creating a seamless look.
Mortar Joint Installation: Stones are spaced apart with mortar visible between pieces, giving a more traditional masonry appearance.

Take a close look at the edges and shapes of the stone on your sample board—this will help you decide which style best suits your project.

Testing Stone in Your Space

Natural stone is dynamic, and its appearance can shift depending on lighting:

Natural Light: See how the stone looks during the day in sunlight.
Artificial Light: Place it under lamps or overhead lighting to check the tones in the evening.
Different Times of Day: Morning, afternoon, and evening light can all affect how the colors appear.

We recommend moving your sample board around the room and observing it under different conditions. This will give you the most accurate sense of how the stone will look once installed.

Next Steps

Your stone sample is the perfect first step in planning your project. After evaluating the board, spec sheet, and catalog, you’ll be ready to:

Compare other styles to refine your vision
Decide on your preferred installation method
Work with a mason or contractor to bring your project to life

✨ Pro Tip: If you’re between two or more stone options, order multiple samples and view them side by side. This helps you see subtle differences in tone, texture, and pattern.