About Natural Stone Institute
The Natural Stone Institute has grown through mergers and expansions—bringing together organizations with roots dating back to the late 1800s—to become the industry’s most comprehensive and enduring association for natural stone professionals.
The cornerstone for NSI was laid in 1894, when the International Cut Stone Contractors and Quarrymen’s Association established a successful and long-lasting foundation by creating the first Standard Specifications. This positioned the association as a central resource for stone material. In 1955, the organization’s name changed to the Building Stone Institute.
The marble industry has long played a central role in NSI. Established in 1903 as the National Association of Marble Dealers, the Marble Institute of America officially formed in 1944, when the association merged with the National Association of Marble Producers. In 1962, the National Association of Marble Builders merged with the Marble Institute of America.
Notably, in 2018, BSI and MIA combined to form NSI. In 2021 the National Building Granite Quarriers Association (founded in 1916) merged with the Natural Stone Institute.
NSI’s history is complex, but its mission remains clear: to lead, support, and promote a unified natural stone industry. In short: advance the natural stone industry—and natural stone—together.
Over time, multiple associations came together under one roof, establishing NSI as a world leader. Today NSI provides diverse resources, professional development, regulatory advocacy, and networking opportunities while serving as the authoritative source for safety, technical standards, and knowledge on all types of natural stone.
Our rebranding is yet another step in the progress our organization has embraced. We honor our rich legacy as we’re charting a bold new path forward. This latest chapter will further strengthen NSI as the new lead brand for the global natural stone industry—one that will continue to evolve, innovate, and set the standard for generations to come.
