Patent ID: 7774091
Filing Date: 2010-08-10
Classification: B24C,B28D

Abstract:
1. A method of cutting and finishing a natural stone, the natural stone having a thickness of from about 1.5 inches to about 6 inches and having an irregular or varied surface such that the natural stone varies in thickness, to form a natural stone veneer component having a thickness of from about 1.5 inches to about 6 inches, having a perimeter of a pre-determined contour and an edge at the perimeter, and having a weathered appearance, the method comprising: a) positioning a cutting head of an abrasive waterjet machine over the natural stone at a distance of from about 0.3 inch to about 4 inches from a contact surface of the natural stone; b) cutting through the natural stone by contacting the contact surface of the natural stone with an abrasive waterjet from the waterjet machine, the waterjet at a pressure of from about 18,000 pounds per square inch to about 80,000 pounds per square inch, thereby forming the natural stone veneer component having a thickness of from about 1.5 inches to about 6 inches and having a perimeter of a pre-determined contour and an edge at the perimeter; and c) treating the natural stone veneer component to achieve a weathered appearance.