Start with the use
For a kitchen worktop, consider food contact, spills, heat and daily care. For floors and stairs, discuss traffic and the slip performance of the final finish. Outdoor use requires checking the suitability of the particular material and construction.
Look at the actual slab
A small photograph does not show the full vein layout. Ask for a whole-slab image and a sample where available. View the material alongside the room’s other colours and under the intended lighting.
Agree the finish and layout
Polished and honed finishes give the same stone a different appearance. Discuss joints, vein direction, edges and cut-outs. If you want pattern continuity or bookmatching, agree the layout using the available slabs before cutting.
Compare complete proposals
Compare more than the material price. Check cutting, processing, transport and installation, who handles each task and the schedule. Thickness and support follow the technical design, not appearance alone.