There are two principal methods to cut a block of marble:

1. Passcut
2. Counter-Pass Cut

With the pass cut (also known as the “with-the-bed cut” or “vein cut”), the marble slab is sliced parallel to the main direction of the veining, creating elongated shapes. Of the two types, this cut is the most commonly used.

With the counter-pass cut (also called the “across-the-bed cut” or “fleuri cut”), the slab is sliced perpendicular to the main direction of the veining, similar to the way a salami is sliced. This cut yields tighter, smaller, and more angular fragments and veining patterns than the pass cut. It is used primarily on brèche marbles, mainly to create a contrasting surface design.

How can you spot the difference?  If the marble has a direction – like water flowing down a rocky stream – then it is a PASS CUT.  

Learn how to Identify Marble here