Steine

Steine is the plural form of the German noun Stein, which translates to stone or rock in English. It refers to natural rock material as well as to individual stones that can be found in the environment or used in construction and decorative work. The singular form is Stein.

In geology, stones are solid aggregates composed of minerals. They vary widely in mineral content, texture, and durability. Common categories of rocks—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—are further broken down into specific stone types such as granite, sandstone, limestone, and marble. The term Steine is used for loose stones, as opposed to large rock outcrops or bedrock.

In construction and design, stones are quarried, cut, and finished for use as building blocks, paving, cladding, sculpture, or landscaping. Dimension stone refers to stones that are cut to specific sizes and finished surfaces. Stone properties such as hardness, porosity, and resistance to weathering influence selection and application. Stones are also used in historical or archaeological contexts as artifacts or remnants.

Usage and context: In everyday German, Steine appears in many phrases and in place names. The term is neutral and broad, covering a wide range of natural and processed stone materials, while more specific terms such as Edelstein for gemstones or Mauerstein for masonry stone are used when precision is needed.