Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic stone formed from clay mud; composed of sediments of decomposed stone and organic matter that has been hardened by heat and pressure. Since the geological process varies greatly, slates range quite a bit in hardness and porosity.
Stone is a tactile and versatile material and it is an exciting experience to watch finished stone emerge in multifarious forms from a piece of rock. The processing of natural stone starts at the quarry where a section of solid rock is found and blocks are separated from it with as little damage to the stone as possible.
Stones have different surface textures, according to their formation but these days, stones are fabricated to give desired surface textures. There are six main types of surfaces that are in use.