The Finishing Process

The edges of many monument uprights and bases are finished by a technique known as “pitching.” A pitched finish gives the stone a natural, “rough” appearance. However, pitching is no simple task. Great skill is required. A poorly pitched stone will appear artificial; the skillfully pitched surface hides the craftsman’s art, appearing as though untouched by human hands. The subtle precision of the artisan is nearly imperceptible in its expression; its absence is glaring.

Pitching begins with a series of lines that are drawn on the stone. An artisan employs a small hammer and a set of stone chisels (hand sets). The chisel is placed against the surface of the granite, usually at an angle, and is struck with the hammer. The chisel is moved along the line and struck once more. This process continues along the length of the line. Then the artisan returns to the starting point and repeats the process, splitting the stone along the desired line. Curves may also be pitched. For example, the outline of a cross can be created entirely by hand by this pitching method.

Computer-guided contour saws are used when a design requires graceful curves or an intricate shape. Diamond-wire, a flexible cable with metal segments to which industrial-grade diamond is bonded, forms a continuous loop. The saw is similar in appearance and function to a woodworker’s band saw, but the wire travels horizontally between two guide wheels rather than vertically. A complex profile or a silhouette, such as that of a cross, is programmed into the saw’s computer, enabling the saw to track the outline.

Although the contour saw is capable of cutting intricate shapes, it cannot cut a column. The gracefully proportioned columns that adorn many of Rock of Ages’ mausoleums are cut on a stone lathe. The column begins as a rectangular block of granite. A small circular blade encrusted with diamond dust performs “plunge” cuts, i.e., a series of shallow cuts are made side by side along the corners the length of the block. Knocking off these thin pieces results in a “rough round,” the corners of the block having been removed. Another diamond blade is used to finish the rounding process.