Choosing the Right Diamond Tool for Each Material

Not all stones are equal. Each material has its own hardness, density, and structure that determine which diamond tool performs best. This guide breaks down the characteristics of quartzite, porcelain, granite, marble, and engineered stone, with expert tips on choosing the right blades, bits, and pads.

Quartzite – The Toughest Natural Stone

Characteristics:

  • Quartzite is formed from sandstone under intense heat and pressure, creating a surface that is harder than granite (often 7+ on the Mohs scale).

  • It’s extremely dense and brittle, which makes cutting difficult and prone to chipping if the wrong blade is used.

Challenges:

  • Blades can glaze quickly due to the hardness.

  • Requires slower feed rates and steady coolant flow to prevent overheating.

Best Tools:

  • BMF™ Quartzite Bridge Saw Blades – 25mm patterned segments for durability.

  • BMF™ Quartzite Core Bits – Soft-bond design to core through the hardest of quartzite materials.

  • BMF™ Finger Bits – Soft-bond design to maintain cutting speed.

  • BMF™ Quartzite Zero Tolerance Wheels – Resin-filled for vibration control.

Pro Tip:
Use steady, moderate pressure and dress blades frequently to expose fresh diamonds.

Porcelain and Dekton – Ultra-Compact Surfaces

Characteristics:

  • Porcelain and sintered materials like Dekton are ultra-compact and extremely brittle.

  • Thin slabs (6–12mm) require precision to avoid edge blowouts.

Challenges:

  • Chipping is common at entry and exit points.

  • Heat buildup can crack the surface.

Best Tools:

  • BMF Porcelain Core Bits – Provide clean, chip-free holes.

  • BMF Porcelain or BMF Dekton Bridge Saw Blades – Reduce vibration and cut cleanly.

  • BMF All Cut Pro – Flush Cut – Shape porcelain, Dekton, and other Ultra-compact materials.

  • BMF All Cut Pro – Silent Core – Wet or Dry cut porcelain, Dekton, and other Ultra

Pro Tip:
Start drilling at a slight angle to score the surface, then level out gradually. Use tape on exit points to reduce chipping.

Granite – The Durable Workhorse

Characteristics:

  • Granite is a mix of minerals, primarily quartz and feldspar, making it hard yet slightly porous.

  • It’s one of the most commonly fabricated stones due to its durability.

Challenges:

  • While not as hard as quartzite, granite can wear down lower-quality blades quickly.

  • Needs balanced tools for both speed and finish quality.

Best Tools:

  • Stinger™ Bridge Saw Blades – Ideal for granite slabs.

  • Stinger Black Small Diameter Turbo Blades – Ideal for cutting granite and Engineered Stone with an Angle Grinder.

  • Stinger Finger Bits – Fast material removal for sink openings.

  • Stinger™ 7-Step Pads – Bring out granite’s depth and natural shine.

Pro Tip:
Maintain a feed rate of 70–90 inches/min and ensure even water distribution to avoid surface burns.

Marble – Soft and Scratch-Prone

Characteristics:

  • Marble is softer (3–5 on the Mohs scale) and more porous than granite or quartzite.

  • It scratches easily and requires a gentle approach.

Challenges:

  • Can chip or crack if cut too aggressively.

  • Can develop swirl marks during polishing if pads are not properly cleaned.

Best Tools:

  • Stinger™ Marble Blades – Softer bonds for smooth cuts.

  • 7-Step Spider™ Pads – Deliver a glossy finish without scratching.

Pro Tip:
Polish at lower RPMs and use clean pads to avoid embedding debris in the surface.

Engineered Stone (Quartz)

Characteristics:

  • A composite of natural quartz crystals and resin, engineered stone is uniform but heat-sensitive.

  • It does not require the same deep refinement as natural stone but can burn or discolor if polished improperly.

Challenges:

  • Resin content can clog polishing pads.

  • Overheating during polishing can cause resin damage.

Best Tools:

  • Spider™ VII Bridge Saw Blade – Optimized for Medium Hard materials like Granite and Engineered Stone

  • Spider™ Small Diameter Turbo Blades – Optimized for resin-based ma

  • Spider™ 3-Step Pads – Optimized for resin-based materials.

  • Zero Tolerance Wheels – Resin-filled versions work best for controlled shaping.

Pro Tip:
Polish with consistent water flow and avoid dry polishing for extended periods.

FAQ

Q: Why do some materials chip more than others?
A: Hard, brittle materials like porcelain and Dekton are prone to edge chipping. The right blade and feed speed can reduce this risk.

Q: Can one blade cut all types of stone?
A: No. Each material requires a specific bond hardness and segment design for optimal performance.

Want expert advice on matching tools to materials? Contact our team or explore our full product catalog.