EP2: Mastering Natural Stone with Shaun from RMS Traders

12/02/2025, 11:22 by: rochelle

In this episode, we sit down with Shaun Palkhiwala from RMS Traders to talk about one of our favourite materials – natural stone!

As someone who grew up in the family business, Shaun has a wealth of knowledge on the beauty and durability of natural stone, and he offers insightful tips on how to select the perfect stone for your next project, ensuring that you balance both aesthetics and practicality.

We discuss everything from the importance of sealing stone to make it low-maintenance, to how to navigate the variety of stone options out there—like quartzite, limestone, and travertine. Shaun breaks down how to manage those inevitable stone variances and how to communicate your vision with suppliers to get the best result. He also shares clever ideas for creating unique finishes, like tumbling stone for that beautiful velvety texture or experimenting with linear cobbles to add depth and warmth to your design.

If you’re someone who loves the timeless appeal of natural stone and wants to get the most out of your next project, this episode is for you!

With 3 showrooms located in Richmond, Geelong and Hoppers Crossing, RMS Traders is one of the largest importers and stockists of natural stone tiles in Australia since 1986. Check them out at:

rmstraders.com.au
instagram.com/rmstraders

 

Key Takeaways

  • Natural stone types include quartzite, limestone, granite, and marble.
  • Natural stone is durable and suitable for various applications.
  • Durability and pricing of stones depend on various factors like rarity and sourcing.
  • Sourcing stone involves travelling to quarries and factories worldwide.
  • Beige and earthy tones are trending in stone selections.
  • Matching slabs and tiles is crucial for a cohesive design.
  • Natural stones are repairable, making them a practical choice.
  • Slate is making a comeback in interior design.
  • Understanding the maintenance of natural stones is essential for longevity. 
  • Sealers for natural stones are generally water-based and easy to apply.
  • Different finishes can create various looks from the same stone.
  • Budgeting for stone can be more affordable than perceived.
  • Wastage should be factored into stone projects.
  • Creative finishes can enhance the aesthetic of stone.
  • Understanding stone pricing can lead to better choices.
  • Checking deliveries is crucial to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Always verify the quality of stone upon delivery.

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