Taking a fireplace surround from a raw block to polish

After cutting the raw block to a rectangular section that will fit the bollection profile that I'm wishing to create, I start by making a series of stepcuts that are rough at first, then progressively more refined to the finished shape.

This is a leg section after the refinement of the step cuts with different blades on the bridge saw.

The various parts ready for carving and shaping, etc.

Starting with lower grit sandpaper, moving to higher grits, the color and figure of the stone will become more present.  It really starts to give back at this point.

The polished black marble leg with plinth blocks

Installation of the fireplace surround almost complete

The finished work with a brass, polished stainless steel fire basket to complete.