The selection of a marble block according to dimensions, structure, veining, defects, orientation, color, and suitability for the intended sculpture.
Scelta del blocco di marmo is the selection of the marble block. The Pietrasanta interviews indexed by Le voci del marmo treat block selection as a distinct professional decision.
The sculptor considers size, soundness, veins, fissures, grain, orientation, visible character, working allowance, and the demands of the intended form.
Etymology
Italian: scelta, “choice or selection,” + blocco di marmo, “marble block.”
Sculptor Notes
Block selection is already part of carving. A sculptor who chooses a block intelligently can place vulnerable projections, major masses, and visible veins in relation to the stone before a tool touches it.
References
https://levocidelmarmo.sns.it/lista_times.php