Bedrock vs. Cornerstone — What's the Difference?

(figurative) A basis or foundation.

The cornerstone (or foundation stone or setting stone) is the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation. All other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.

Bedrock in geology is solid rock that lies under loose softer material (regolith) within the crust of the Earth or another terrestrial planet.

An important quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based

The solid rock that underlies loose material, such as soil, sand, clay, or gravel.

A stone that forms the base of a corner of a building, joining two walls.

The very basis; the foundation

A stone at the corner of a building uniting two intersecting walls; a quoin.

The lowest point

Such a stone when inscribed with the date of the start of the construction of the building.

The solid rock that exists at some depth below the ground surface. Bedrock is rock "in place", as opposed to material that has been transported from another location by weathering and erosion.

An indispensable and fundamental basis

To establish on a solid foundation.

A stone forming the base at the corner of a building.

Solid unweathered rock lying beneath surface deposits of soil

Such a stone used ceremonially, often inscribed with the architect's and owner's names, dates and other details.

Principles from which other truths can be derived;

(figuratively) That which is prominent, fundamental, noteworthy, or central.

The fundamental assumptions from which something is begun or developed or calculated or explained;

A stone in the exterior of a large and important building; usually carved with a date and laid with appropriate ceremonies

A stone at the outer corner of two intersecting masonry walls