A machine for cutting a block of stone so as to form a precision straight edge about its perimeter. The machine comprises a stationary base which supports a back-up member which serves as an anvil. Reciprocally mounted on the base is an inside upright assembly which may be raised or lowered by a suitable drive mechanism. Pivotally secured to the inside upright assembly above the anvil is a head member supporting an elongated blade assembly, the blade assembly adapted to be actuated by one or more hydraulic rams disposed in the head assembly and at generally opposite ends of the blade assembly. A block of stone to be cut is positioned on the anvil. The tiltable head assembly is then rotated about its pivot line to direct the action of the upper blade. The blade assembly is lowered so as to be positioned slightly above the upper surface of the stone. By selectively activating one or the other of the power rams, the blade is made to pass through the block of stone in a scissors-like action.