There’s nothing like vein-cut stone to give a unique, flowing, zen-like ambience to an interior. The linear striations give a sense of effortless, ongoing flow, and the look is popular in both residential and commercial applications. But what exactly is a “vein cut” slab?
Vein-Cut Explained
Before a natural stone slab becomes an actual slab, the stone is cut from the quarry in the form of a massive block. Veins of minerals run through the block of stone. These mineral veins, each of a unique color and texture, will give the future slabs their pattern and character. The pattern, however, is determined by what direction the stone block is sliced.
In the vein-cut process, the block is cut along the grain, which will show the layers of sediments and contain a horizontal veining. Vein cutting is in contrast to the cross-cut process, in which the slabs are cut against the grain. With this method, the slabs may contain veining, but will not look “striped”. This is also referred to as a “fleuri” cut because it reveals a flowery, often circular pattern.
Whether you’re going for a traditional, classical look or a stunning, dramatic contemporary design, there’s just no substitute for the banded look of vein-cut natural stone. Or is there? Fortunately (and thanks to huge technological strides in digital printing), you really can have the look – minus the cost and upkeep – of classic vein-cut travertine, marble, granite, limestone, and more. These porcelain tiles from GIO are a practical and beautiful alternative to the real thing and a great way to get the look of vein-cut of natural stone for a fraction of the price with zero maintenance.
Maximus Floor & Wall Tile
This travertine look-alike has natural, linear detailing and is offered in three true stone colors. Available in large-format 12″ x 24″ and 24″ x 48″ tiles, 8″ x 48″ planks, as well as matching bullnose and mosaics, this tile can be used for a wide range of applications. Learn more about Maximus here.
Midtown Floor & Wall Tile 
The dramatic striations in Midtown present a look that’s hip and edgy, yet still elegant – a perfect choice for modern interiors. Midtown is available in a range of colors and large format sizes. Choose from 12″ x 24″ and 18″ x 36″ tiles, 6″ x 36″ planks, 3″ x 24″ bullnose, and 2″ x 2″ mosaics. This tile is also Green Squared certified. See more of Midtown on our website.
Verve Floor & Wall Tile
Elegantly earthen modular and mosaic stone-look tiles in our Verve collection offer authentic details, versatile hues, and urbane style. This glazed porcelain stoneware line is offered in four authentic earth-tone hues and comes in 12″ x 12″, 12′ x 24″, 6″ x 24″ mosaics and 3″ x 12″ bullnose.
Amani Floor & Wall Tile
The newest addition to the GIO line-up of floor and wall tile, strongly striated Amani is available honed or polished in quartet of natural looking neutrals. Choose from 12″ x 24″ and 24″ x 24″ tiles. Learn more about Amani here.
GIO is your gateway to beautifully designed, strategically selected collections of floor and wall tile sure to fit your demanding specification requirements and unique style. We look forward to working with you!
