Identify what the sample represents
Record the Hyaline reference, format, selected surface and supplier reference where applicable. Clarify whether the sample demonstrates colour only, an actual production format, a profiled face or a mesh-mounted sheet. The word “handmade” in a range name should not be treated as proof of a particular manufacturing process.
For mesh-mounted products, identify both the sheet size and the individual piece dimensions. For concave, convex or bevelled surfaces, review the side profile as well as the front. A flat image can omit the feature that matters most to the design.
Review a small layout in the intended lighting
Place several samples together to review shade distribution and surface rhythm. Discuss joint width, grout colour, orientation and transitions to neighbouring materials with the responsible designer. Gloss, metallic and pearlescent effects can look different as lighting and viewing position change.
Photograph the layout for communication, but keep the physical pieces when they form the approval basis. Note the viewing conditions. If pieces are intentionally varied, agree representative examples of the accepted range rather than expecting every piece to match a single photograph.
Create a usable sample record
| Record | What to write down |
|---|---|
| Identity | Reference, format, surface and sample revision. |
| Accepted appearance | Representative tones, texture, profile and agreed viewing context. |
| Open decisions | Thickness, edge details, technical use, packing or further samples still required. |
| Approval | Reviewer, date, status and location of retained samples. |
Connect approval to the actual order
Ask how batch identification will appear on cartons and inspection records. If the format, glaze or source changes after approval, review the affected details again. Appearance approval does not automatically confirm floor suitability, pool compatibility or any project-specific performance requirement.
For reorders, provide the earlier order reference and ask whether the available batch can be compared with the retained samples. Do not promise an invisible replacement across independently supplied batches. Hyaline can coordinate the sample references and clarify the review scope before an order is released.
Buyer questions
Does decorative variation mean defects do not matter?
No. Agree the intended variation and workmanship requirements separately. Chips, transport damage and unintended issues should not be accepted simply because a surface has a deliberately irregular appearance.
Can I approve a tile from an online image?
An image is useful for shortlisting. Confirm whether the project requires physical pieces, a layout sample and model-linked technical information before order approval.