What is BS EN 12407- Natural stone test methods-Petrographic examination about?
BS EN 12407 is a European standard that discusses the petrographic examination for natural stone test methods.
BS EN 12407 specifies methods for making technical petrographic descriptions of natural stone except for roofing slates.
Note-
Although chemical and physical methods of analysis are required for petrographic classification of some stone types, these methods will not be described in BS EN 12407.
Who is BS EN 12407- Natural stone test methods-Petrographic examination for?
BS EN 12407 on Natural stone test methods-Petrographic examination is applicable for:
- Retailers and suppliers of natural stone
- Companies dealing with natural stone
- Researchers working on natural stones
Why should you use BS EN 12407- Natural stone test methods-Petrographic examination?
Petrographic testing is the use of microscopes to examine samples of rock or concrete to determine their mineralogical and chemical characteristics.
BS EN 12407 highlights feature affecting the chemical, physical and mechanical behavior of the natural stone.
BS EN 12407 gives you guidance on the preparation of thin and polished structures which will help you carry out the test effectively.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 12407:2019 supersedes BS EN 12407:2007, which is withdrawn. It includes:
- The changes concern essentially the proper scientific definitions, terminology, and diagrams

