MARBLE | GRANITE | LIMESTONE | SEMI-PRECIOUS STONE | QUARTZ
MARBLE
True marbles in the geological sense are metamorphosed limestone and are principally composed of re -crystallised calcite formed into an interlocking granular structure. Some hard or partially metamorphosed materials are incorrectly referred to as marble, even though they exhibit many of the characteristics of marble.
In its purest state marble is typically white, however the presence of other minerals may cause colours to appear as irregular shaped patches (brecciation) or as substantial veining. Specialist advice should be obtained as to the suitability of such marbles in particular locations.
Greater care must also be taken during installation as other construction defects easily taint the pureness of marble, particularly from underlying materials and may result in staining at a later date.
It is common to use marble with a highly polished surface finish and, as a consequence slip resistance should be careful considered.
In its purest state marble is typically white, however the presence of other minerals may cause colours to appear as irregular shaped patches (brecciation) or as substantial veining. Specialist advice should be obtained as to the suitability of such marbles in particular locations.
Greater care must also be taken during installation as other construction defects easily taint the pureness of marble, particularly from underlying materials and may result in staining at a later date.
It is common to use marble with a highly polished surface finish and, as a consequence slip resistance should be careful considered.
GRANITE |
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The term granite has been applied to almost any igneous stone that can retain a polish. True granites make up many of these stones but other types of igneous stone that may fall into this classification include, syenites, gabbros, dolorites and diorites. The metamorphic stones ganeiss, schist and granulite are frequently also included in this (granite) classification.
The formation of these igneous rocks by the slow cooling of molten minerals such as quartz, feldspar and hornblend has resulted in a wide variety of colours and grain patterns. The interlocking crystal structure, imparts both the high strength and low porosity necessary for a wide range of applications other than just flooring: these characteristics are also important in allowing successful use of slabs that are thinner than other types of stone.
The surface finish affects the appearance of granite and those available include: sawn, flame textured, dolly pointed, fine axed, rough punched, honed, bush hammered and water jet. It is in the gloss polished form however that these granites fully reveal their colours and grain patterns.
The formation of these igneous rocks by the slow cooling of molten minerals such as quartz, feldspar and hornblend has resulted in a wide variety of colours and grain patterns. The interlocking crystal structure, imparts both the high strength and low porosity necessary for a wide range of applications other than just flooring: these characteristics are also important in allowing successful use of slabs that are thinner than other types of stone.
The surface finish affects the appearance of granite and those available include: sawn, flame textured, dolly pointed, fine axed, rough punched, honed, bush hammered and water jet. It is in the gloss polished form however that these granites fully reveal their colours and grain patterns.
LIMESTONE
Limestone is a sedimentary rock. Many of the commonly used varieties were formed by the accumulation of the hard remains of former organisms such as corals and shells. These materials principally comprise calcium carbonate (calcite). Calcite is a relatively soft mineral and careful selection will be needed when you choose this as use for flooring. Variations in the types and quantities of shell and other remains, and the nature of the cement, provide a huge range of limestone types available.
The colour of limestone ranges from almost white to a warm honey tone. Textures range from fine even grained stones, smooth fossil bearing types, and coarse open textured variations. Certain limestones such as Hopton Wood, Purbeck, Ancaster and some imported stones will take a polish. Finishes included honed, sawn, flamed textured and polished are also offered.
Limestone, probably more than any other stone, is susceptible to potential staining, and application of surface treatments to prevent this requires serious consideration.
SEMI-PRECIOUS STONE
Semi-Precious stones naturally found in small pieces and are bonded together with resin, and then cut and polished into slabs and tiles. Onyx is a gem stone found in various regions of the world. Both are are very beautiful but delicate materials, usually used for feature walls and decorative panels under back-lit conditions, or for bespoke furniture such as vanity units and tables. They vary dramatically in colour and texture depending on the quantities of different minerals within them.
QUARTZ
Quartz is the most variable of all minerals, found in many different forms and colours. There is a greater variety of names given to Quartz than any other mineral. It is a durable material, being heavy and tough, and can be fabricated in many sizes and shapes.
Please use the links below to view the Quartz that can be sourced by us.
Please use the links below to view the Quartz that can be sourced by us.
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