According to the latest stone import statistics reported by U.S. Customs, imports of natural stone -- particularly granite -- have increased for two consecutive months.

The monthly import statistics for granite show that the U.S. brought in approximately $53 million worth of granite in April of 2009, up from around $43 million the previous month. Moreover, this total represents an increase of more than 40% over February's total of approximately $38 million -- the lowest figure in several years. Overall, the U.S. imported just over $109 million worth of stone in April, up about $10 million from the month before.