Natural Stone slabs and tiles can be cut from the block in two ways.  The method used effects the appearance of the veining.

Cross-cut
Stone cut from the block in a manner parallel to the natural bedding plane.  The result is a swirl or cloud-like appearance in the stone pattern.

Vein-cut
Stone cut from the block in a manner perpendicular to the natural bedding plane.  Vein-cut stone has an enhanced horizontal vein structure.