american stone
Thirstystone Coasters
The ubiquitous beverage coaster. Tossed with abandon as kids, set liberally about the newlywed’s new furniture. Their use tends to lose urgency as my go-to table begins taking on the characteristics of my wooden floor.
In climates with near-zero atmospheric humidity to condense, yonder glass of iced sun tea with mint still rests upon a handsome coaster. Decorative, maybe protecting … something. Maybe from habit?
Made in the Southwest, cores of solid sandstone are cut to discs of this absorbent rock. Then shaped and polished. Natural cork backing and any logo or design you choose. Painted and packaged in Gainesville, Texas.
The perfect gift. An unopened boxed set discovered at an out-of-the-way thrift store? Definite collector’s item. Stock up! You’ll be retiring in style!
Pennsylvania Blue Marble
Bizarre marine arthropods of the Cambrian Explosion roamed a vast sea which covered what is now Valley Forge National Park. Relax, we refer to events of 450 million years ago. Under this sea there formed a weakly metamorphosed calcite marble. Fa
st forward, to the early days of The Republic. This Pennsylvania Blue Marble became an important regional building stone in the first half of the nineteenth century.
One has but to tour older Philadelphia row home neighborhoods to see its extensive use as steps, window sills, lentils, and trim. Alas, structural decomposition, changing design tastes, and improved transportation systems increased availability of better quality white marbles from New England and Georgia. What becomes of the Pennsylvania marble as buildings are pulled down?
People like me collected steps and sills in nicer condition for garden use. Wear patterns tell the story of healthy, prosperous neighborhoods. Tool marks upon the ends aid
one in establishing production date, as methods of stone dressing evolved. The 350 pound steps were welcomed by friends and neighbors, as well. A unique pillar for the garden bird bath or flower-pot. And the sills make great bordering stones! Pictured is a local effort. These stones were pulled from houses under demolition within Philadelphia’s Fairmount section.
American Toolbox 