I would think that carving a softer less aged stone would reduce microcrackinq that may not show for years but could accelerate deterioration. Just a thought. Eric Hammarberg Associate Director of Preservation Senior Project Director LZA Technology 641 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10011-2014 Telephone: 212.741.1300 extension: 1016 Mobile: 917.439.3537 Fax: 212.989.2040 email: [log in to unmask] Dennis Rude wrote on 6/27/01 8:42 am: Yes, limestone can still be carved, although it will be harder than fresh stone. The stone that was produced for the National Cathedral gargoyles and other decorative elements were stored outside for years before the carving was done. When cutting into those blocks, there was an outer layer, almost like a crust, of about three quarters of an inch. It was harder than the stone underneath. What I don't know is whether that "crust" continues to get thicker or not. Hopefully not, but even if it does, it's just harder stone with nothing wrong with it. It will just take a little longer, that's all. Dennis Rude Cathedral Stone Company, Inc. 410-782-9150 -----Original Message----- From: Preservationist Protection Program [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Met History Sent: Tuesday, June 26, 2001 10:49 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: How long can you wait to carve quarried limestone? The 1902 entrance wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, facing Fifth Avenue, had four giant (20x20x20?) assemblages of limestone blocks placed at the entablature, with a view to carving them into sculptural groups. But the carving was never executed. Can limestone exposed to the air over a century stilll be carved, and could these blocks still be carved in place? Or does the stone degrade in some way? Christopher Gray "Streetscapes" Columnist, Sunday Real Estate Section The New York Times office: 246 West 80th Street New York City 10024 voice: 212-799-0520 fax: 212-799-0542 e: [log in to unmask]