The answers tell you whether you are dealing with a workshop or a middleman.

About the stone

1. Which marble is this — Makrana, Vietnam white or something else?

2. What grade is it, and how is that grade defined?

3. Is it carved from a single block?

About the carving

4. Is it hand-carved or moulded?

5. Who carves it, and where?

6. Can I approve a drawing or reference before carving starts?

About the order

7. What is the realistic timeline, and what could delay it?

8. Will I receive photographs before dispatch?

9. What is the finished weight?

About delivery

10. How is it packed, insured and shipped, and who handles damage claims?

Reading the answers

A workshop answers these directly and specifically. Vague answers about stone origin and grade usually mean the supplier does not control the carving.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important question to ask a murti supplier?

Which marble it is and what grade, in writing. Stone origin and grade drive both quality and price.

How can I tell if a supplier is a reseller?

Resellers are often vague about who carves the piece, where, and how the stone is graded. A workshop answers specifically.

Should I insist on approving a drawing?

Yes, for custom work. Design approval before carving is the cheapest point at which to make changes.

Where to go next

• Start a custom order

• About Murtiya