Stone+Tec 2003, the International Trade Fair for Natural Stone and Stone Processing Technology, is scheduled for May 29 to June 1 at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg in Nurnberg, Germany. The 2001 edition of Stone+Tec -- which takes place every two years -- drew over 46,000 visitors and included more than 1,250 exhibitors. This year's event is intended to be just as successful as the 2001 edition. Exhibits will display the latest products and technology in natural stone materials, quarry and fabricating equipment, and stone maintenance care products.

The show organizers at NurnbergMesse will be promoting a new logo for Stone+Tec, depicting a carefully constructed stone pile. Referred to as cairns or "snowmen" by hikers and mountaineers, these stone piles are placed at the edge of a trail to point out the correct direction in rocky and difficult terrain. The design combines archaic aesthetics and symbolic associations, according to the organizers. The small solitary tower protrudes from the landscape with simple elegance, and at the same time suggests the hand of the person who worked the stone. Stoneworking is one of mankind's oldest cultural achievements, and the theme of the new logo is therefore a symbol of how stone is timeless, reports NurnbergMesse.