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As the global stone industry prepares for one of its most anticipated gatherings, STONELINK is proud to announce its participation in the 59th Marmomac International Stone Fair, taking place in Verona, Italy, from September 23–26, 2025. Visitors are warmly invited to explore our immersive booth experience at Area C, Stand C1, where the theme COLORSCAPE will bring natural stone to life through rhythm, emotion, and design.     1. Marmomac: Six Decades of Industry Leadership   Since its inception in 1965 as the "International Marble and Machinery Exhibition" Marmomac has grown into the world's benchmark event for natural stone. Verona, known as the "Kingdom of Stone," provided the perfect foundation for such a fair. Its Roman-era stone quarries, iconic structures such as the Verona Arena, and streets lined with red Verona marble are living testaments to this legacy.   Key milestones in Marmomac's journey include:    1978: Professional management began under Veronafiere, ushering in a new era of international expansion.  1981: The event was renamed Marmomacc, a move signaling its global ambitions.  2000s: With the stone industry booming, Marmomac became a central hub for suppliers, machinery manufacturers, architects, and designers worldwide.  2020–2021: Despite the pandemic, the fair demonstrated resilience with Marmomac Restart Digital and successfully resumed offline exhibitions, hosting exhibitors from 39 countries.   Today, Marmomac is not only the largest natural stone exhibition in the world, but also a platform that integrates the full value chain—from quarrying and processing to design and distribution.     2. Marmomac 2025: A Gathering of Global Forces   The 2025 edition promises to be a historic one, with the theme "Stone Sets the Stage." Over 1,200 exhibitors from more than 50 countries will showcase their latest innovations across 76,000 square meters of exhibition space.   Highlights of this year's event include:   Brazil's debut national pavilion in Hall 1, covering 4,000 sqm with 31 companies under the theme "Brazilian Natural Stone – The Natural Choice." Supported by ApexBrasil, this initiative underscores Brazil's growing role as a global supplier of premium stone.   A dynamic mix of materials, technologies, and design concepts that emphasize the cultural, aesthetic, and functional value of stone in architecture. Networking opportunities for stone suppliers, distributors, designers, architects, and project managers, making it the ultimate marketplace for new collaborations.   In 2024, Marmomac attracted 1,485 exhibitors and 50,000 visitors. For 2025, registrations by August 30 included 1,227 exhibitors: 411 from Italy, 237 from China, and 120 from Turkey.     3. STONELINK at Area C, Stand C1 — COLORSCAPE   At Marmomac 2025, STONELINK presents COLORSCAPE, a booth concept designed to explore how color and stone interact wi...

At the end of July, STONELINK held its 2025 mid-year company meeting. The event focused on reviewing progress, solving problems, and preparing for the second half of the year. Every department shared updates and plans. The meeting also helped improve communication and strengthen team spirit.     1. A Creative Start: Signing on Stone   The meeting started with a creative activity. Team members signed their names and painted STONELINK brand stories on pieces of natural stone. These stone samples came from STONELINK's main product lines, like Honey Cream limestone, Four Seasons Excalibur quartzite, Patagonia quartzite, Travertino Classico, Raggio Verde marble, Blue Water marble, Jurassic Traonyx travertine, Lazy Sunday marble, Velvet Red quartzite, Red travertine, Pink agate precious stone, Yellow onyx, grey granite, grey terrazzo, and the like. The activity showed pride in the company and helped everyone feel more connected.   2. Operations Department: Growing Online Channels   The Operations Department reported on three major areas:  Alibaba International Platform  Google-based independent website  Social media marketing   They shared progress in online traffic, customer leads, and brand promotion. The team also explained how they plan to improve content, search visibility, and customer response speed. They discussed both success stories and current challenges.   3. Resources Department: Managing Products and Supply   The Resources Department gave updates on:  New stone resource development  Production follow-up  Warehouse management  CAD design support  Export documents  Quality control   They aim to improve workflow, reduce mistakes, and respond faster to market needs. The department also focused on better supplier communication and material tracking.     4. Business Department: Focus on Markets and Clients   The Business Department covered both domestic and international markets. They reviewed sales results, client feedback, and key projects. They also shared market trends and regional needs. The team's goal is to offer better service, faster follow-up, and higher customer satisfaction.   5. Open Discussions and Teamwork   After each report, there was a group discussion. These sessions helped different teams understand each other better. Everyone had a chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and suggest ideas. This helped solve problems more directly and quickly.   6. Department Vows: Focused on Year-End Goals   At the end of each department's session, the team made a group vow. They promised to work hard toward the company's year-end goals. This moment helped boost team energy and confidence.     7. Dinner Together: More Than Just Colleagues   After the meeting, the team enjoyed dinner together. It was a relaxing time. People laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the evening. It showed that STONELINK is not just...

From Manhattan’s skyline to global luxury addresses, the Trump brand has long been synonymous with opulence—and natural stone plays a central role in shaping that image. For contractors, distributors, and stone professionals, understanding the materials used in the Trump Towers portfolio reveals not only market preferences at the high end, but also the performance expectations placed on stone in commercial, residential, and hospitality design.   This article offers an in-depth look at the specific types of marble, granite, limestone, and other materials featured in various Trump Tower projects worldwide. We focus on flagship buildings such as Trump Tower New York, Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago, and Trump Towers Istanbul, examining both interior and exterior applications from a stone industry perspective.     1. Trump Tower New York (Fifth Avenue, Manhattan)   Main Stone: Rosa Portogallo Marble (Lobby Interior)  Origin: Portugal  Color: Soft pink with subtle veining  Application: Floor-to-ceiling cladding in the atrium lobby  Finish: Polished  Supplier Notes: Selected for its warm elegance and ability to reflect natural light in enclosed atrium spaces.   Other Notable Materials:  Brass inlay paired with marble flooring  Black Absolute Granite in elevator surrounds and restrooms  Botticino Classico Marble used in residential bathrooms   Design Insight: The building’s signature pink lobby became iconic in the 1980s, symbolizing bold luxury and marking a break from the neutral color palettes common in corporate skyscrapers of the time.     2. Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago   Main Stone: Impala Black Granite (Facade & Lobby Cladding)  Origin: South Africa  Color: Charcoal-black with fine mineral sparkle  Application: Base of the building, lobby walls  Finish: Honed exterior / Polished interior   Additional Materials:  Calacatta Marble (Italy) – Featured in penthouse bathrooms and spa suites  Travertine Navona (Italy) – Public spaces and reception areas  Silestone and engineered quartz – Used for countertops in hotel kitchens   Technical Notes: The stone facade was engineered to handle the city's extreme freeze-thaw cycles, and the honed granite performed exceptionally well in urban pollution environments.     3. Trump Towers Istanbul   Main Stone: Marmara Equator Marble  Origin: Turkey  Color: White with horizontal gray bands  Application: Lobby flooring, wall cladding  Finish: Polished   Complementary Stones:  Emperador Dark (Spain) – Used in residential and commercial bathrooms  Afyon White Marble (Turkey) – Kitchen countertops and boutique display areas  Basaltina (Italy) – Outdoor hardscape zones   Market Impact: Turkish natural stones in Trump Towers Istanbul reflect local sourcing preferences and cost-performance considerations in overseas luxury development. &n...

Held in Verona, Italy, Marmomac 2024 reaffirmed its role as the world’s premier stone fair for the natural stone industry. With over 50,000 visitors and more than 1,400 exhibitors from 55 countries, the event offered a unique window into the latest trends, innovations, and material inspirations that will shape the global design and construction landscape in the coming year.     French Quatre Saisons Renaissance: Four Seasons Marbles Spark Curiosity   Among the freshest discoveries 2024 was a series of richly colored Four Seasons marbles. While not a household name in the global stone market, Cambodian quarries caught widespread attention for their painterly aesthetic — bold veining, fractured mineral patterns, and a diverse seasonal palette. The so-called "Four Seasons" series, offered by a select group of exporters, emerged as a conversation piece. The materials, ranging from dusty rose and lavender to warm gold and stormy grey, were heavily photographed and circulated across design blogs and social media.   "It felt like every other designer was asking about that pink-veined marble from Cambodia," remarked Luisa Ferranti, an Italian interior designer known for her residential projects in Milan. "You can tell there's something emotionally evocative about it — very contemporary, very expressive."   Design Meets Engineering: Lightweight Stone Panels Take Center Stage   While traditional slabs remained popular, Marmomac 2024 saw a marked rise in interest around engineered lightweight stone panels — particularly those reinforced with aluminum honeycomb or fiberglass backing. These innovations allow for large-format applications without compromising structural feasibility, especially in vertical or mobile installations. Portuguese and Turkish manufacturers led the charge, showcasing ultra-thin facades and modular panel systems that are redefining commercial interiors and luxury retail environments.   "Clients today want scale and drama, but they also want to reduce structural load and carbon footprint," noted Hans Ohlendorf, a German stone consultant. "The shift toward engineered stone assemblies is no longer niche — it's mainstream."   Color Trends: Earthy Greens, Soft Beiges, and Monochrome Contrasts   On the aesthetic front, three color families dominated Marmomac 2024:    Earthy Greens – From deep forest quartzites to olive-toned marbles, greens were everywhere, often paired with organic finishes like leathered or honed textures.  Soft Beiges and Blushes – Warmer neutral palettes saw a resurgence, signaling a move away from stark white minimalism.  High-Contrast Monochromes – Dramatic black-and-white marbles and granites returned in bold bookmatched feature walls and custom furniture pieces.   Artisanal Revival: Hand-Finished Textures & Mosaic Resurgence   Another key highlight was the return of artisanal techniques. Mosaic walls, ha...

Coverings 2025, held in Orlando, Florida, from April 29 to May 2, brought together the global tile and natural stone community to unveil the latest material innovations and design directions. This year's event marked a clear convergence of sustainability, bolder aesthetics, and a renewed appreciation for natural texture. Among the highlights, natural stone took center stage, not just in terms of visual appeal but in its evolving role in modern architecture and interior design.   Dominant Natural Stone Trends in 2025     1. Marble Reigns Supreme: Elegance Reimagined   Marble once again emerged as the leading material at Coverings 2025. However, this year saw a distinct shift toward multi-colored, expressive marbles that break away from the classic white-and-grey palette.   Materials like Four Seasons Green, Calacatta Viola and Lazy Sunday, captivated architects and designers with their vivid veining, dramatic contrast, and dynamic movement. These marbles are no longer confined to countertops and floors, they are now used in statement walls, artistic cladding, and even sculptural furniture pieces.   The appeal lies in their ability to deliver timeless luxury with contemporary personality. With improved sealing technologies, even highly decorative marbles are now suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, expanding their functional value.   2. Quartzite: Performance Meets Beauty   Closely following marble in popularity is quartzite, a material that blends crystalline brilliance with incredible durability. Its natural resistance to scratching and heat makes it a favorite for countertops and outdoor applications.   Exhibitors highlighted exotic varieties like Taj Mahal, Excalibur, and Nacarado, each offering rich textures and color depth. In a market demanding both performance and aesthetics, quartzite continues to shine as a high-end, low-maintenance solution.     3. Travertine & Limestone: Soft Neutrals for Wellness Spaces   In spa-inspired interiors and wellness-oriented environments, travertine and limestone have made a strong comeback. Their soft, neutral tones and honed finishes are ideal for minimalist, calming spaces.   Natural beige, ivory, and light taupe shades dominated booths that focused on biophilic design, emphasizing the tactile softness of these stones. Travertine, in particular, was reimagined in large-format applications and curved architectural forms, showcasing its versatility in contemporary spaces.   Finishes That Redefine Texture   Across all stone categories, textured finishes were emphasized over high polish. Designers are increasingly favoring leathered, brushed, or sandblasted finishes that provide both visual depth and tactile interest. These surfaces soften reflections and contribute to the material's warmth and natural authenticity.   Sustainability and Stone Sourcing   Sustainability was a key theme, with manufacturers and quarries empha...

At STONELINK, we believe in the transformative power of reading. Our Reading Sharing Meeting is more than just a gathering—it's an opportunity to explore new perspectives, strengthen connections, and embark on a journey of personal growth. Rooted in the philosophy of "Rooted Deep, Growing High", this initiative allows participants to immerse themselves in the world of books while fostering meaningful discussions with like-minded individuals.   1. Why Join the STONELINK Reading Sharing Meeting?   1) Journey Within: A Tranquil Moment with Yourself   In our fast-paced world, finding time for self-reflection is rare. This book-sharing event provides a serene space where you can pause, reflect, and connect deeply with literature that inspires and challenges you.   2) Exploring Beyond: Connecting with Kindred Spirits   Reading is a solitary act, but discussing books transforms it into a shared experience. Through our interactive sessions, you’ll meet individuals who share your passion for reading and intellectual growth, making each meeting a truly enriching experience.     2. Event Structure: A Unique Reading Experience   The STONELINK Reading Sharing Meeting follows a well-designed format to maximize engagement and enjoyment:   1) Interactive Icebreaker: Building Trust Through Connection   To foster trust and team spirit, we begin with engaging activities such as:   Blindfolded Walk with Guidance – Participants navigate a path with a partner’s verbal directions, symbolizing trust and collaboration.   Blindfolded Signature Exchange – A fun challenge that encourages teamwork and mutual support.   2) Book Sharing Session: Insights, Reflections, and Takeaways   Each participant shares insights from a book or reading material they have recently explored, covering key aspects such as:   (1) Most Impactful Characters or Events: How did these moments influence your thoughts or perspectives? (2) Disliked Characters or Actions: What aspects of the book did not resonate with you, and why? (3) Memorable Quotes: What are the standout lines that left a lasting impression?   This segment sparks deep discussions, allowing attendees to gain fresh viewpoints and broaden their intellectual horizons.     3) Recognition and Appreciation: Celebrating the Best Sharings   To encourage meaningful participation, we hold a live voting session to select the "Best Sharer of the Meeting." The winner receives an Honorary Certificate, recognizing their exceptional contribution to the discussion.   4) Afternoon Tea & Open Conversations: Relax and Connect   After the structured discussions, attendees enjoy a relaxed afternoon tea session, offering the perfect setting for open conversations and networking. This is where the magic of genuine connections happens, as ideas flow freely in an informal and friendly atmosphere.   Join Us for an Inspi...