Mantle is the face of the fireplace. It surroungs the actual fireplace and is usually very decorative. It is the mantle that converts a fireplace into a decorative entity. The mantles frame the fireplace and provide shelf space to display other decoratives.
Stone mantels accentuate the look of the room. They can be given different finishes from rough to polished. They can be tiled or carved. Each type of stone that may be granite, marble, limestone, sandstone or slate gives a different look and feel to the room.
A mantel consists of mantel shelves that are generally handcrafted and make good displays. The mantel legs are stone veneers extending the shelf finish.