Experts from the worlds of architecture and geology have joined forces to unveil the first-ever guide to detail the natural resources used to build some of Northern Ireland's best-known landmarks.

'Stone By Stone' was written as a collaborative project between Stone Conservation Services, Consarc Design Group and Queen's University, Belfast.

According to publishers, Appletree Press, the book throws new light on "the history and use of stone in the construction of iconic buildings including the Albert Clock in Belfast and Dunseverick Castle in County Antrim".

Co-author and Chairman of Consarc Design Group, Dawson Stelfox, said the book was an accessible guide that would enable better understanding of Ireland's natural stone heritage and the importance of proper maintenance and restoration.

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"Used for millennia, natural stone is the definitive building element on the island of Ireland and it remains in the vanguard of innovative design and construction. However, over the last century we have lost much of that instinctive understanding of how best to use it," he said.

"As a result, our rich masonry heritage has not been cared for as well as it deserves and local resources have been ignored in favour of imported stone.

"This book is based on the experience of academic research, practical testing and live restoration projects and is intended to both promote good practice for those working with stone and act as an informative guide for anyone interested in learning more."

Dr Garth Earls, Director of the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, added: "This book draws on the very best information available to form a comprehensive source of information on all Irish stone from raw rock in the ground to prominent use in celebrated High Street buildings and monuments."

He said that 'Stone By Stone' is an important and accessible guide to one of Ireland's richest and most important resources and a definitive guide to working with it now and in the future.

(NS/BMcC)