How Indian Sandstone is Mined: From Quarry to Your Garden

August 5, 2025

How Indian Sandstone is Mined: From Quarry to Your Garden

Indian sandstone is a popular natural stone used across the UK and worldwide for patios, pathways, driveways, and landscaping projects. Known for its durability, rustic charm, and natural beauty, Indian sandstone is sourced directly from the earth—mainly in regions like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. But have you ever wondered how this beautiful stone is mined and processed before it arrives at your doorstep?

In this blog, we’ll take you through the fascinating journey of how Indian sandstone is mined, processed, and prepared for export.

What is Indian Sandstone?

Indian sandstone is a sedimentary rock formed over millions of years by the accumulation of sand, minerals, and organic material. The most common varieties used in paving include:

Raj Green Sandstone
Kandla Grey Sandstone
Autumn Brown Sandstone
Mint Fossil Sandstone

Each type offers unique colour tones and textures, making them highly sought-after for both traditional and contemporary garden designs.

Where is Indian Sandstone Mined?

The majority of Indian sandstone is quarried in the state of Rajasthan, where the desert climate helps preserve the quality and colour of the stone. Key quarrying areas include:

Kota
Bundi
Dholpur
Jodhpur
Bhilwara

These regions are known for producing high-grade sandstone with rich natural hues.

The Sandstone Mining Process

Mining sandstone is a meticulous process that involves skilled labour, careful extraction methods, and sustainable practices. Here's a breakdown of how Indian sandstone is mined:

1. Identifying Quarry Sites

Geologists and quarry experts conduct surveys to locate deposits of quality sandstone. Once identified, mining leases and environmental clearances are obtained before any excavation begins.

2. Drilling and Splitting

Specialized equipment is used to drill holes into the rock surface. These holes help create controlled cracks so that large sandstone blocks can be split cleanly. This step often uses:

Pneumatic drills
Hydraulic splitters
Feather and wedge systems

3. Manual Extraction

Despite the use of some machinery, much of the sandstone extraction is still done manually. Skilled workers use hammers and chisels to extract large blocks, ensuring minimal damage to the stone.

This traditional approach helps preserve the natural cleft of the sandstone, which is highly valued in the paving industry.

4. Shaping and Cutting

Once the blocks are removed, they’re transported to processing units where they are cut into uniform slabs. Modern machines such as:

Gang saws
Wire saws
Polishing machines

…are used to cut and finish the stone based on export requirements—be it hand-cut, sawn, tumbled, or honed.

5. Sorting and Grading

The slabs are sorted according to thickness, colour, and finish. This ensures consistency in batches, especially important for large-scale landscaping projects.

6. Packing for Export

Finally, the sandstone is packed in strong wooden crates with foam protection to prevent breakage during transport. The crates are then shipped to countries like the UK, where they are distributed to retailers and paving contractors.

Is Indian Sandstone Mining Sustainable?

Sustainability and ethical sourcing are increasingly important in today’s market. Reputable quarries in India are taking steps to:

Reduce environmental impact
Reclaim quarry sites
Provide fair wages and safe working conditions
Minimise water use and dust pollution

Many exporters now hold certifications such as SEDEX or ETI Base Code, assuring buyers that their stone is responsibly sourced.

Final Thoughts

The next time you step onto an Indian sandstone patio or admire a garden path, remember the incredible journey it has taken—from the deserts of Rajasthan to your home. By understanding how Indian sandstone is mined, you can make informed choices about the materials you use and the suppliers you trust.

If you're looking for ethically sourced, high-quality Indian sandstone, explore our collection of handpicked slabs designed for UK homes and gardens.