GMS Field Trip June 2025

GMS Field Trip
Plant Tour and Various Rocks in Georgia
Friday, June 6, 2025

Members visited a plant that takes large (car size!) stone blocks and make them into countertop slabs. Over the years, we have watched as their processes have become more and more refined, and the machinery has become more and more high-tech. The giant saw blade that was in use just a year ago is no longer necessary. Lasers, high-pressure water jets with garnet sand, and computer-driven devices make quick, precise work out of cutting and processing stone.

The plant manager greeted us that morning and gave us a brief history of the company. Then, he led us on a tour through the facility. We started with a device that scans a whole slab in one pass to produce a high-resolution digital image. Designers work with customers using the image to mark flaws and to visualize the layout of the countertop as well as match veins and patterns for optimal use of the stone. Special calibration marks are made on the slab so it can be oriented correctly for cutting, then the digital layout is used by other machines to cut the slab.

From there, we were free to wander through row upon row of slabs. Members enjoyed seeing the vast variety of materials. It was fun to examine the slabs to see the different minerals in them, the geology behind them, and to ponder how they formed.

Next, we toured the plant. We saw several different devices, including water jet devices, machines with both water jets and traditional metal blades, routers, and polishing machines. Most of the equipment is programmable and computer controlled. A new piece of equipment was being installed during our visit. We learned that it will combine multiple processes into one continuous process. We were amazed to see a slab with 45-degree cuts in the middle of it. There was a time when this sort of cut would have been extremely difficult, but water jets are now capable of angled cuts.

Members particularly enjoyed watching a routing device as it finished the edges of openings cut for sinks. It uses grinding tools with various shapes and grits. The machine can change tools as it goes, so the process is automated from start to finish. Skilled workers hand-finish pieces as necessary.

After a stroll through the showroom to see examples of how the materials are used, we went with the plant manager to collect on the scrap piles. Members carefully perused the bits and pieces left over from processing blocks and slabs. With so much to choose from, everyone went home with plenty of goodies. Some pieces are destined for projects around houses, some were collected as specimens, some have lapidary uses, and some will be used in fairy gardens!

We cannot thank the company owners and the plant manager enough for allowing us to visit their plant. Members always have a great time learning about how countertop material is processed, and they enjoy learn about the materials too. Thank you to members for following all of the safety protocols, asking interesting questions, and for sharing their excitement and photos with us. As always, thank you to Charles Carter for arranging yet another great trip!

Note: Specific location information is not included in this report to respect the privacy of property owners.

Lori Carter on behalf of Charles Carter
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