Let me start by saying, these slate stones are absolutely stunning! The deep grey (almost black) color with that silvery mica luster is a game-changer for any aquarium or terrarium setup. I used them in my planted freshwater tank, and wow – they make the plants and fish pop like never before.

The stones arrived well-packaged with no breakage, just as other reviewers mentioned. I got a mix of sizes in my 10lb box, ranging from about 4 to 7 inches. While most were in the advertised size range, there was some variation in thickness that required a bit of creative rearranging for my aquascape.

What I love most is how versatile these stones are. I created a beautiful cliffside effect by standing some pieces on end and laying others flat. They hold heat wonderfully too – perfect for my reptile-keeping friends who need basking spots.

A few things to note: The thickness does vary between pieces (some are quite slender while others are chunkier), so if you're planning something very specific, be prepared to adapt your design. Also, while most pieces were in the advertised size range, one or two were slightly smaller than expected.

After rinsing them thoroughly (which I'd definitely recommend), they looked even more impressive underwater. The natural variations in color and texture give each piece unique character – no two setups will look exactly alike!

While they're not the cheapest option out there, the quality and natural beauty make them worth the investment for serious hobbyists. Just be aware that if you need very uniform sizes or specific thicknesses, you might want to consider ordering extra to ensure you get enough pieces that work for your project.