ERA

A limestone monolith with three stones inserted, they're slate, sandstone and quartz, all quarried in cumbria. Being a single piece of limestone it is heavy, 3 tons to be exact. Which brings its own unique set of difficulties. For example the usually simple task of moving a piece was impossible without machinery which was made possible with the help of Yew Tree Barn.

     

Here you can see the size of the stone in the quarry, with fossils visible at this post blast stage, the potential is easy to see. Starting on the three holes that are drilled through the stone in specific places in accordance with the designs. The design relating to time in astrology and taking inspiration from the celts.    

Left hole partway drilled, right Gerty the spaniel suspects progress. Using a mixture of core drills, chisels and iron bars the holes are 3ft long and lie horizontal through the limestone, with a 6inch diameter. 

Grading and polishing is the next leg of the journey, using a grinder and chisel to level the face before moving onto polishing wheels. Working the surface from 50 grit up to 3000 grit.