Marble Slate: The Elegant Choice
First, let's talk about marble, also known as white marble or polished stone. These slates typically come in thicknesses of 3.0cm, 3.6cm, and 4.0cm. Marble has a smooth surface and a good feel, making it suitable for players who appreciate refinement and elegance. However, marble is relatively lightweight, unlike bluestone.
Bluestone Slate: The Professional Choice
When it comes to professional billiard tables, bluestone is the way to go. Bluestone is mainly produced in Jiangxi province, especially from high-quality mining areas, such as those in Huizhou, which are considered top-tier. Bluestone is typically 4.0cm, 4.5cm thick, and some even reach 5.0cm. Bluestone has a smoother surface, lower pitch difference, better feel, and is less prone to line deviation, making it a boon for professional players.
Cost Comparison
In terms of cost, bluestone and marble differ by nearly a thousand yuan. Generally, club owners choose bluestone because it's more durable and offers a better feel. For ordinary shops with one or two pool tables, marble is also a good choice.
Heavyweight Players: A single slate for a black eight/American pool table is made of three smaller pieces, each weighing 200-350 pounds. Moving these heavy pieces is strenuous; non-combatants should not attempt it, as it can easily injure their backs. Manufacturers usually only provide transportation and installation services; the actual moving is the customer's responsibility. Owners with elevators should prepare a small cart and avoid having movers carry the slate directly, as this is tiring and prone to accidents.
