Picking out the right natural stone veneer pattern for your commercial or residential project can be challenging. There are hundreds of manufacturers sourcing stone from quarries all over the world. While many people focus on the color they want, it’s the pattern of the stone that often goes overlooked. That's why this article aims to give you an understanding of the 5 commonly used natural stone veneer patterns.

The majority of natural stone veneer manufacturers offer five patterns:

Mosaic, Ledgestone, Ashlar, Roughly Square & Rec, and Strip. Understanding each distinct pattern will not only impact the way your project will look, but also influence the color you select and the cost. Let’s take a look at each one:

Mosaic: The Mosaic Pattern is often popular for two reasons: Price & Uniqueness. When considering a mosaic pattern, it’s important to understand that the pieces of stone you receive will range in size and shape. The size of the stones will vary based on manufacturer specifications, but the typical face area is .25sf - 1.25sf. Since no two stones will be the same, your project will have a unique pattern nearly impossible to duplicate. The mosaic pattern is usually considered for large projects where cost may be a deciding factor.

Roughly Square & Rectangle: Often referred to as “Square & Rec”, this pattern is for anyone seeking a more structured look to their project. These stones are manufactured and shipped in a roughly square and rectangular shape. This gives the mason the ability to create straight edges for a clean look that can be repeated in a specific pattern. There is often little waste with this style and the mason can complete a project in less time. Size will vary based on manufacturer specifications, but expect pieces 5”x5” and larger.

Strip: Like the Square & Rec or Mosaic patterns, Strip exposes the face of the stone in long pieces. These pieces can have a rectangular shape or be slightly rounded at the end. Size will vary based on manufacturer specifications, but expect pieces to range from 5”-9” height and 10”-18” in length.

Ledgestone: If you search Google for “stone veneer”, you will often find Ledgestone listed as a common alternative search because it's one of the more popular trends right now for those seeking a modern look. It’s often used for smaller projects such as fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, kitchen backsplashes, or small columns. Unlike Square & Rec or Mosaic, Ledgestone veneer displays the “end grain” of the stone, not the face. This offers a more textured look. Size will vary based on manufacturer specifications, but expect pieces to be 1”-4” height and 4”-12” length.

Ashlar: The Ashlar Pattern is slowly gaining popularity, but it’s important to do your homework since the cut of this product will vary based on manufacturer specifications. Some manufacturers will offer an “end grain” cut similar to Ledgestone, while others display the face area. A typical Ashlar pattern consists of Strip, Ledgestone, and small Squares. Once again, the size will vary based on manufacturer specs and usually range from 3”-8” height to 4”-16” length.

Bonus Pattern- Rounds

While rounds are not considered a pattern, almost every manufacturer offers a round veneer stone. Rounds can be weathered from a field or are commonly known as a “River Round”. Although not a perfect circle (it is natural stone), rounds are more circular in shape than mosaic and have a typical diameter of 5”-12”.

As you go through the process of selecting your natural stone veneer, it’s important to keep these patterns in mind. Selecting one over the other will ultimately impact the look of the project, the cost of materials and labor.

Mike Wolfe is the Director of Operations at Delgado Stone Distributors, a global leader in natural stone veneer manufacturing.

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