Marble
This metamorphic rock is geologically a limestone that has recrystallised over the years under extreme heat and pressure within the earth. There are marbles of many different colours and patterns – some are very decorative and others subtle and classic. Because marble is a porous stone, special treatment and care is needed to protect its natural beauty from staining and scratching.
Onyx
This semi-precious stone is a translucent variety of quartz, composed of tiny crystals. It usually forms in a fine array of different banded colours. The bands tend to be parallel to one another and have a milky texture. Its striking translucent colours make it ideal for creating stunning interior features, such as backlit wall panels.
Gemstone
Often used for jewellery or ornaments, most semi-precious gemstones have physical properties that make them hard-wearing. Their rarity, characteristics and aesthetic appeal often contribute to their value. Some of the many different gemstones can be used to create unusual furniture or artistic features in interiors.
Travertine
Travertine is a form of calcium carbonate created by deposits from springs or rivers – a dense, closely compacted form of limestone. It is often beautifully coloured and banded because of iron compounds or other impurities in the stone. An excellent stone for residential and commercial use, travertine is available in a number of finishes. It is becoming increasingly popular because it has the elegant look of marble, but requires very little maintenance after sealing.
Limestone
This sedimentary rock originates from soft deposits settling underwater. Compression over millions of years cements the sediment, fossils and other sedimentary structures, providing clues to the environment in which the stones formed. Limestone is generally quite soft and porous, but treated correctly it can be durable and hardwearing. The properties of each type of stone vary considerably and we can advise about whether a specified material will perform to the required standard.
Slate
A fine-grained sediment, usually a mud stone, develops progressively to shale and then to slate through the action of burial, compression and heat. The physical characteristics of slate enable it to be split into parallel sheets – either riven or cleft. English and Welsh slate are among those that originated as volcanic ash deposits, which tend to be harder and more durable. Slate is non-porous because of its laminated structure, although some slates are quite soft and scratch easily. A riven or cleft finish is ideal for flooring as it provides a non-slip surface, even when wet.
Granite
One of the most durable and hardwearing stones used in construction, granite is also among the most decorative and interesting options available and comes in a wide range of beautiful colours. Granite is an igneous rock, formed as a result of the slow crystallisation of molten magma deep in the earth’s crust. A polished granite surface is said to be almost indestructible.