In this issue of Stone World, we chose an interesting case study for our monthly "Re-Emerging U.S. Stone Industry" series. Rock Solid, a company based in Virginia Beach, VA, expanded its operation from solid surfaces -- such as Dupont Corian -- to natural stone. And while the company's stoneworking equipment is very basic -- a bridge saw, a portable edging machine and various hand tools -- its expanded role presents an interesting debate for the stone industry. The company remains a fabricator and supplier of solid surfaces, but it has also entered the natural stone industry, and it is looking to increase its presence with more machinery in the near future.
And Rock Solid's expansion is not at all unique. With the increased popularity and affordability of natural stone, more and more companies are increasing -- or establishing -- their presence in the stone industry. Homeowners who walk into a Home Depot looking for a kitchen countertop are finding granite displays right next to the man-made materials.