Certifications to Look for When Buying Stone Internationally

Why Certifications Matter in Stone Trade

Certifications serve three distinct purposes: they verify performance characteristics (CE, ASTM), they verify identity and origin (quarry certificates, COOs), and they verify ethical and environmental standards (fair trade, EPDs).

CE Marking (European Market)

CE marking is mandatory for natural stone sold for construction use in the EEA. It indicates the product has been tested and declared conformant with the relevant European harmonised standard. For any stone project in Europe, insist on CE-marked product.

ASTM Standards (US Market)

In the United States, ASTM standards govern stone performance requirements: ASTM C503 (marble), ASTM C615 (granite), ASTM C568 (limestone), ASTM C629 (slate).

ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems

ISO 9001 certification indicates a supplier has implemented a documented quality management system. For large commercial projects, it's a reasonable minimum expectation.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)

EPDs, conforming to ISO 14040/14044 and EN 15804, are required or encouraged by LEED v4, BREEAM, and Green Star rating systems. Italian stone producers are among the most advanced in EPD publication.

Fair Trade and Ethical Sourcing

Child labour in Indian quarries is a documented historical issue. Several certification bodies address this: the Fair Stone Standard (Germany), the Ethical Stone Register (UK), and audits by organisations like FLOCERT.