Fine Finishes: Modern Pictographs

Using computer-guided laser technology and working with natural granite, marble, and travertine, Aquarius Laser Etching and Design can recreate nearly any image, even original designs. Jeronimo Martin says his company can reproduce images for wall murals, floor medallions, and inlays, but kitchen backsplashes, bath and shower walls, and accent tiles are the most common applications.

Aquarius also can etch designs into wood, metal, slate, acrylic, glass, and almost any other material. “But we get the best results from granite, marble, and travertine,” Martin says. The design and etching process more closely resembles graphic design work than traditional stonework. “We do a lot of digital mock-ups for clients that we can then e-mail to them,” Martin says. Once an image is selected and the format decided on, a graphic designer scans the image, sizes it to the project’s requirements, adjusts the coloring, then sends the information to the laser to start etching the design.

In addition to monochrome work, the company also produces color etchings on stone. Some stones must be stained to bring the image forward, such as light-colored travertine or marble, but even darker stones like granite can be stained and colorized to give the image greater impact. A colorist hand-stains the etched areas of the design. “There’s no paint buildup to feel, because it is absorbed into the stone,” Martin says. The etched tiles or slabs can be installed by any qualified tile installer. 530.666.3989. www.aquarius-laser.com.