The properties (like composition, characteristics, uses and occurrence) of common stones like granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, gneiss, slate, quartzite, basalt, trap, travertine, kankar, chalk, etc.,

The governing factors that are to be considered while selecting a stone for particular purpose are explained briefly.

The uses of stones and commonly used stones for each purpose are discussed briefly.

The methods by which stones can be preserved and also common preservatives used for this purpose are discussed briefly.

All the major factors by which a stone undergoes deterioration like rainfall, temperature change, wind, frost, chemical action, salt crystallization, etc., are explained briefly.

The characteristics that are to be considered while selecting a particular stone as building material are explained briefly.

Quarrying of stones is briefly explained considering the selection of quarry site, methods of quarrying, etc.,

The classification of rocks based on geology, physical properties and chemical composition are briefly explained in an easily understandable manner.

The cyclic process which a rock undergoes getting transformed from one form to another is briefly discussed in this article.

Most common rock forming mineral like feldspars, quartz, amphiboles, micas, olivine, garnet, calcite, pyroxenes, dolomite, etc., are briefly discussed along with their characteristics.