XL map made with quartz

In certain spaces, a standard world map simply doesn't suffice. For those fortunate enough to possess expansive homes or offices, the opportunity for grandeur beckons. Today, we delve into the realm of design with an exploration of an exceptional world map crafted from genuine quartz stone. A magnificent piece tailored to its environment with precision.

From the mine to the press

The journey from raw material to finished masterpiece is a testament to the artistry and dedication involved. Originating from the quarries of North India, large chunks of quartz rock undergo a big transformation. Through a process involving layering with synthetic resin and drying, these rocks are transformed into flexible sheets. Each with 1-5 mm (0.39''- 0.59'') of authentic stone in shades ranging from grey to warm brown, accentuated by glimmers across its surface.

For our featured client, a single massive plate of this quartz stone, measuring nearly 2.5 meters (3,28 ft) in length and 1.5 (4 ft) meters in width, served as the canvas for their vision. The resulting world map stretches almost 2.5 meters in width and nearly 2 (6,65 ft) meters in height—a true statement piece commanding attention and admiration.

A sheet of quartz stone from the north of India — ***Sheets of quartz stone***

Cutting an oversized plate of quartz into a world map

Crafting such a monumental artwork requires planning and execution. Alterations to the AutoCAD design ensure precision in the laser cutting process, while adjustments to installation templates account for the substantial weight of the quartz stone. Each step in the process reflects a commitment to quality and a dedication to realising the client's vision on a grand scale.

Through the fusion of natural beauty and expert craftsmanship, this extraordinary quartz stone world map stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of bespoke design. Its presence not only enriches the space it inhabits but also serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend the ordinary and inspire awe.

The installation template of a stone map XL made from quartz — ***Installation template for a stone world map XL***

As depicted in the photo of the installation template, mounting this quartz stone map is a task best undertaken by two individuals. The sheer size and weight of this unique piece make it a singular addition to any space. Though the lighting may not have been optimal at the time of the photo, the impact of the XL map is undeniable.

Upon entering the hall where it resides, the map commands immediate attention, its presence both striking and captivating. The culmination of craftsmanship and exquisite materials, the stunning quartz stone world map stands as a testament to the beauty of bespoke design. For a closer look at the breathtaking result, refer to the photo below.

The XL world map made of quartz stone — **StoneCut Rusty Lady world map XL**

Unboxing and installing

Installing a world wall map is often perceived as a challenging task, particularly with complicated designs like the StoneCut and the stone world maps. However, contrary to popular belief, it's really simple. Thanks to MapaWall's innovative magnetic installation system, the process becomes straightforward, making it accessible to anyone.

A well secured package

When ordering a precious item online, one always hopes that both the selling company and the shipping carrier recognise its value. Especially when purchasing a world map crafted from real stone, as in this example. This becomes even more critical when the map is ordered from the United States for example and shipped from The Netherlands. To ensure the map's safety during transit, this company has made advanced packaging solutions, such as the 'carton suitcases,' secured with extra-hardened carton profiles to withstand potential impacts. In the accompanying unboxing and installation video, viewers can witness the robustness of the suitcase and the clever use of installation attributes to secure its contents securely.

In addition to the reinforced packaging, all shipments containing these stone world maps benefit from a specialised shipping service. This service, provided by UPS Capital, offers insurance coverage for packages shipped outside The Netherlands and Europe, providing buyers with peace of mind against loss or damage. This assurance is particularly reassuring when purchasing a precious item like a quartz stone map from this client's example. Although in the video, which was sent in by previous clients, the delivery process was overseen by the customer, typically, the UPS driver would deliver the map to its final destination of course.

Unboxing and installing a stone world map

Opening and installing

Inside the carton suitcase, a 3-step manual guides you through the process of opening the casing without risking damage to its contents. By laying the suitcase on its back and cutting along the sides, you can easily access the securely packaged contents. Upon opening, you'll discover two layers containing the continents firmly attached to the carton plates, along with two separate boxes housing the islands and installation materials.

Included in the installation kit is a template, that simplifies the installation process. Fixing the template to the wall with tape completes half of all the work. The remaining steps just involve drilling seven holes and marking additional points. This is done by using the template as a guide for the islands placement. Once all pre-pinched holes are marked, remove the template from the wall and insert plugs into the drilled holes, followed by securing the 7 magnets into place. With the magnets installed, attach the large pieces to the wall and begin with glueing the glass spacers. These spacers correspond with the previously marked pencil points, requiring only a small amount of included gel to stick them to the wall.

Within minutes, all islands are precisely installed in their designated locations, voila! The greatest convenience lies in the ability to attach and detach the entire world map in just a few seconds. Ideal for those considering a wall colour change, for instance. Still uncertain about the simplicity of this installation process? Take a look at this unboxing and installation video from one of our clients for reassurance.

**StoneCut world map with quartz stone installed**

Customised stone maps

Some of our clients have special wishes regarding the customisation of their world map. You can say that the StoneCut maps are already special from itself. But to make it a little extra special we can tweak the map here and there. In today's example we'll have a look at one of our slightly customised StoneCut world maps that was installed by a client in The Netherlands.

Engraved state borders

Every now and then we get questions regarding the design. And especially about the country borders. On the scale in where the StoneCut world maps are cut and engraved we have included almost all countries. Even the smaller ones like The Netherlands and Luxembourg. But by default we always stick with country borders. But with a lot of clients from the United States of America we get the request to also engrave the US state borders. Because this client form The Netherlands also has a special bond with the US, he requested these state borders in his StoneCut map. Because the quartz stone from this map can vary quite a lot in thickness due to the material nature of having different thicknesses, we need to set the laser manually to engrave certain areas. Also the area on the stone on where the US state borders are cut. But as you can see, the result is really nice.

The archipelago of Hawaii

In addition to the state borders this client also requested the islands of Hawaii. But the reason these islands are not included in the regular sized map isn't without a reason. On this scale a few of the smaller islands like Moloka'i and Lanai are simply too small to fit our glass magnetic spacers, which have a diameter of 8 mm, on where the islands are glued to. So whenever we get requests for these islands with world maps from this scale we explain why we don't include these islands standard. But if the client insists we make these (complimentary) islands in different sizes (100% & 200% scaled). By blowing up the design, the two smaller Hawaii islands can be fit more easily to the spacers. Then the actual scale of these islands will be out of proportion. But not too many people will notice when only these two islands are swopped with the 100% scaled version.

***Rusty Lady world map with Hawaii & US state borders***

With or without the US stated borders and the archipelago of Hawaii. This StoneCut world map with quartz stone is still a beautiful piece of wall art.