## Common ground
All options are mantelpieces made from rigid, non-metallic, inorganic materials used in construction or interior design.
## Options at a glance
**6802.2X–6802.9X – Made of monumental or building stone**
- **Defining trait:** Crafted from natural stone like granite, marble, or limestone, typically quarried and shaped for structural or decorative use.
- **Typical examples:** Granite fireplace surround, carved marble mantel, polished limestone hearth.
- **Best fit when:** The mantelpiece is made of solid, naturally occurring stone with visible grain or mineral structure.
**6803.00 – Made of slate**
- **Defining trait:** Constructed from slate, a fine-grained metamorphic rock known for its layered texture and durability.
- **Typical examples:** Slate-faced mantel, rustic slate hearth, split-layered stone mantle.
- **Best fit when:** The material has a distinct layered appearance and is commonly used in traditional or naturalistic designs.
**6810.99 – Made of cement concrete or artificial stone**
- **Defining trait:** Manufactured using cement-based materials or synthetic composites, often molded to mimic natural stone.
- **Typical examples:** Concrete fireplace surround, faux marble mantel, cast stone hearth.
- **Best fit when:** The mantelpiece is mass-produced, lightweight, or has a uniform, non-natural surface texture.
## Key differences
| Feature | 6802.2X–6802.9X (Natural Stone) | 6803.00 (Slate) | 6810.99 (Concrete/Artificial) |
|---------------------|-------------------------------|------------------------|-------------------------------|
| Material origin | Natural, quarried | Natural, metamorphic | Man-made, synthetic |
| Surface texture | Varied, natural grain | Layered, split | Smooth, uniform |
| Weight & durability | Heavy, very durable | Moderate weight | Lighter, less dense |
## How to choose
- Is the mantelpiece made of solid, naturally occurring stone like granite or marble? → 6802.2X–6802.9X
- Does it have a layered, split appearance typical of slate? → 6803.00
- Is it molded from concrete or looks artificially manufactured (e.g., fake marble)? → 6810.99
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A mantel made of artificial stone that mimics slate may fit both 6803.00 and 6810.99. If the material is clearly synthetic, use 6810.99. If it’s natural slate, use 6803.00. The defining trait should be the **material origin**, not appearance. Do not prioritize aesthetics over composition