When I joined Stonell as Commercial Director in 1993, little did I know that Natural Stone would become such an important part of my life, possibly even an obsession. Initially, my responsibilities were predominately financial but gradually, as I become more and more involved in Stonell’s products my love for natural stone took over.

As the business grew, this love for stone enabled me to change my role within the company, culminating in overall responsibility for Retail Sales, Architectural Sales and Buying Stone.

I have been extremely fortunate to have an obsession which is also my job, I have travelled the world, visiting quarries and inspecting factories. From the Ramon desert between Israel and Egypt, watching men split stone using wooden wedges and water, the same way as the ancient Egyptians before them, to China where recent investment in machinery has been amazing. Not forgetting my favourite, Burgundy where the limestone quarries sit side by side with the most wonderful vineyards. I’m not sure what I appreciate most, Chassagne Limestone or Chassagne-Montrachet wine.

After retiring early from Stonell in May 2010 I had no intention of continuing to buy and sell natural stone. The truth is, I miss it. I miss the suppliers, I miss dealing with the end user, I miss advising designers and architects, escorting them on quarry and factory visits to agree range selection and quality control.

So! I thought I would put my knowledge and experience to good use and continue the obsession. There is so much information or disinformation on the internet that choosing the right stone for your project is problematic and the choice is seemingly endless. My concept is to put together a group of trusted factories and suppliers to supply good quality stone. In some cases I compare other retailers’ products which will help you make a value judgement. Stonefinders is not about selling cheap stone cheaply but finding the best stone for your particular project at a fair price.

I don’t expect you to share my obsession but you could benefit from it.

Dick Chard