Granite field spat mica quartz Description. Granite - properties. Properties and application of granite

Granite field spat mica quartz Description. Granite - properties. Properties and application of granite
Granite field spat mica quartz Description. Granite - properties. Properties and application of granite

A natural stone - amazing construction and decorative finishing material. For the Millennium, he attracts the attention of anyone who wishes their home or interior to look truly luxuriously. Around the world, the natural stone is considered a symbol of strength and durability, and products from it are distinguished by infinite variety, uniqueness, ancient charm. For the production of architectural and construction parts and products are used mainly marble and granite.

Granite (from lat. Granum - grain) is dense rock, consisting of three minerals: field spat, quartz and mica. Granite is different colors, for example: pink, red, etc. Granite distinguishes him strength, so it is used for the facility embankments, monuments, for facing And other purposes. Different grade of granite differ in color, so it is used for decorative finish and production of interior items. For example, artists make mosaic from polished colored granite.

Granite is distributed in nature. It lies deep in the ground, but sometimes goes to the surface, forming a mountain. Granite has grain structure, Before use, the stone is polished.

Marble (Translated from ancient Greek Marmaros means "brilliant stone") - crystalline-grainy metamorphic carbonate breed, limestallization recrystallization product, less often - dolomite. Due to the close grip of calcite grains, the breed well polished. In the technique and construction of marble, they call any carbonate breed, satisfactory polishing, - limestone, dolomite or marble.

Marble - durable, lasting, persistent to temperature and humidity drops finishing materialused for both internal and outdoor work. Due to the fact that marble is easy to handle and is easily polished, it is widely used in construction (especially for interior decoration buildings) I. for vajania (especially white, slightly translucent varieties).

Color marbles are divided into white and colored (pink, yellow, gray, blue, greenish, reddish, black, brown, as well as various combinations of these colors). Color marbles are characterized by the presence of residences, which are cracked, filled with natural cement.

The marble and granite deposits are dispersed throughout the planet. In Russia, as a rule, natural stones of domestic and Ukrainian fields are presented, which is explained by the convenience of transportation. Among the importing countries, we will list only some: Italy, France, Germany, Greece, Norway, Brazil and many others.

Importing granites and marbles are usually more expensive than Russian. However, if you need to choose a certain color or texture, then a large range of companies offering not only Russian stones will be very by the way. The price is also determined by the fiction and uniqueness of color.

High-quality products are made of stone blocks of up to several cubic meters, a typical commercial size 1.5x2.5x1 M. (height length Width). Often blocks are obtained smaller.

Then, on the factories, these blocks are cut down the length on the plates, usually 2 or 3 cm thick. One side of the plate is polished, polished, chemically processed. Such a stove is called slab (eng. Slab, literally - plate, plate) and is a commercial semi-finished product For stone workshops who make orders for a particular client.

Among more than four thousand rocks, known in modern geology, one of the main groups are magmatic (erupted) breeds. Born as a result of the most powerful eruptions of volcanoes, they for many millions of years frozen in the earthly thicker, under the influence of many factors, acquiring the unique wealth of shades, the game of light and shadows that we can admire today.

Granite is the most common in continental earth Kore Mountain breed formed as a result of slow cooling and solidification at the great depth of the magmatic melt. Granite can also be formed in metamorphism - under the influence high temperatures and pressure, as well as various liquid and gaseous substances (fluids) rising from depth. Individual granite arrays It is often attributed to the magmatic, then metamorphic, and even mixed origin.

In its composition, granites belong to polymineral rocks formed by several minerals. The main breed-forming minerals of granite - feldspar (35-40%) and quartz (25-35%). It is the sword that determines the color of granite. The most commonly found light gray color, but there are also pink, red, yellow and even green granites. Quartz is present in the form of vitreous fractured grains; Usually he is bluntly, in rare cases has a bluish tint, which can acquire the whole breed. Different types of granites are characterized by various types of crystal structure. Among them are coarse-grained, with a grain diameter of more than 5 mm, medium-trimmed with grains from 5 to 2 mm in the diameter, fine-grained with a grain diameter of less than 2 mm. The latter are the most durable - the lifetime of products from fine-grained granite can be calculated by many centuries. Granite deposits have a very widespread and occupy a significant place in the geological structure of the Urals, Siberia, the Caucasus, Ukraine, Karelia, the Kola Peninsula. Granite deposits are available in Central Asia, Finland, India, China, Brazil and many other countries.

Properties of granite

Granite is very widely used in construction and facing work due to its properties.

  1. Durability. The best varieties of fine-grained granite begin to detect the first signs of destruction more than 500 years of operation, so it is often called the "eternal" stone.
  2. Strength. Granite is highly resistant to friction, compression and abrasion. It is very dense (2.6-2.7 m / m?) And a durable natural stone (its strength is twice as much as marble). His hardness granite is obliged to the content of quartz, which may exceed 70%. Under modern processing conditions, granite cut and grind with diamond. In addition, it is possible to achieve a mirror polishing of the surface of the granite slab. It should be noted that in granite due to fragility, thin (hair) local cracks from explosions during the extraction, from shocks, sharp temperature fluctuations, etc. may be relatively easy.
  3. Resistance to the effects of atmospheric phenomena and acids. Granite does not change its properties for 300 cycles of freezing and thawing, therefore is the perfect natural stone for outdoor decoration Buildings. An example of this can serve hundreds of buildings lined with granite in St. Petersburg. Granite, unlike marble, does not require additional protection against mechanical damage and exposure to acid-containing liquids. It is worth noting that both granite and marble are suitable for outdoor facing fireplace. The fire resistance of granite is insufficient, as it cracks at temperatures above 600 ° C due to polymorphic conversion of quartz.
  4. Waterproof. Granite practically does not absorb moisture (water absorption coefficient - 0.05-0.17%.) Therefore, the frost resistance is high. For the same reason, granite is perfect for the facing of embankments. Recall the magnificence of embankments made of granite in St. Petersburg, most of these granite slabs It was laid during the times of Peter I. In the interior, granite is also used to decorate the walls (including in wet rooms), stairs and windowsides, creating countertops and bar racks, columns and fountains.
  5. Ecology. Contrary to emerging prejudices, the natural radiation level of most granites corresponds to the 1st class of building materials - that is They are radiation safe and suitable for all types of construction without restrictions. There are many rumors about the radioactive background near granite. Indeed, all the granites "foundation" due to the content of minerals in them with the impurities of Ceria, Lanthan, etc. However, according to experts, stones in which the radioactive background exceeds the norm - no more than 2-3% of the entire mass of the produced granites. Yes, and they can often be used for outdoor buildings.
  6. Wealth textures. Unpolished, rough natural stone, absorbing light; Polished to a mirror glitter, which reveals the world a unique light game of mica losses - the decorative possibilities of granite are able to satisfy even the most complex design designs. Wide textural capabilities make granite by one of the main materials of the monumental sculpture. Granite is also used for the manufacture of obelisk, columns and as a facing of various structures.
  7. Compatibility with other materials and other species natural stone. Granite is perfectly combined with wood, metal, ceramics and other materials used in modern construction. Granite "will fit" in any interior - from classic to the ultra-modern.
  8. Rich color palette. The most common is gray graniteHowever, both red, pink, orange, bluish-gray, bluish-green and others are found. The color of the stone directly depends on its deposit. For example, in Russia they produce mainly white, gray, red-brown granites, and in Spain - light green, black, pink. If the mramor is typical, as a rule, warm tones, then the granite is cold. In the color of the granite, his magmatic "relatives" is similar. Gabbro - dark brown, black, gray, labradorite - black with blue glimps.
  9. Ergonomic. From primitive times, a person got used to trust the stone. This natural, alive, "feeling" material will remove the psychological tension, bring to your house comfort, calm and comfort.

Natural Stone Scope

In construction, granite is used so widely that it, without exaggeration, can be called universal material. An experienced designer with granite will be able to fully transform your home, giving it additional elegance and respectability, or simply "strain" those or other features of your interior, to make a certain "highlight".

How can granite can be used during construction?

  1. Floors, stairs. Granite - material with a very low level of abrasion. Even if 1 million people will be held on the stairs in your personal apartments for the year, they will be able to erase her steps no more than 0.12 mm. Traditional marching stairs are ideal for large spaces. They are durable and easy to operate, and the appearance of the room is attached slimity and monumentality. Where the area and the interior requires a scope, multi-hour front staircases are erected.
  2. Different parts of the interior of granite. Window sills, eaves, plinths, railing, kitchen countertops and table tops for bathrooms, coffee tables, bar racks, balusters, columns - High strength of granite will allow these subjects for many years to be maintained entirely and unharmed, avoid mechanical damage to the effects of temperature and humidity.
  3. Front and interior decoration. Facing the facade with natural stone is perceived very respectable and reliably and the application of the facade of granite gives the facade of the office or the house presentable modern view. The trim of the facade can be carried out both on new buildings and during the reconstruction of existing ones. Granite is a universal finishing material, and is very often used for cladding of bases and facades of houses, finishes inland walls When interior device. For all types of internal and external finishing works, universal material is required, which is easy to use for lining or paving large areas. The tile of natural stone is easily fitting, creating a flat smooth surface with barely noticeable joints. It is impossible to find no material as practical, wear-resistant and noble as natural stone. Stone tile makes it easier to work with it, and the result is better. And without that universal granite becomes even more practical. Tile from natural stone is available in the entire range of natural shades and in various sizes.
  4. Landscape design elements. Alpine slide, Japanese gardens, decorative reservoirs - made of granite, these fashion compositions will give your garden naturalness and uniqueness.
  5. Granite borders, steps, paving slabs for bridges. Granite is successfully applied in places where big "endurance" is needed. It is resistant to mechanical exposure, chemical pollution and temperature drops - does not change its properties during hundreds of cycles of freezing and thawing. The use of granite pavers is calculated by millennia. According to the famous Ancient Roman crucible roads, you can take a walk today; Streets paved with granite in St. Petersburg with the use of granite blocks, you will find in the old part of the city in many places in very good condition. The success of bridges from blocks is simply explained. Parishing eco-friendly, in contrast to asphalt coatings, it does not apply to the group of carcinogenic materials that promote development cancer disease. Parister durable. It is able to withstand mechanical stress, vibration, destructive effects of atmospheric phenomena and temperature cycles. Paristers are economical and practically does not require repair. The content of bridge from granite costs 6-8 times cheaper than traditional coatings from asphalt and concrete. Laming from the granite aristocratic. Barbed bridges, sidewalks and squares are invariably attached to the city a unique and unique appearance of the European city.
  6. Facing the granite of embankments. Granite practically does not absorb moisture - respectively, with a decrease in temperature in the pores of the stone, an additional internal pressure from the frozen water is not formed, which can lead to the formation of cracks and the destruction of the breed. It is not by chance that the granite for St. Petersburg is the symbol of the beauty of the decoration of his embankments.

MARBLE

The use of marble leaves its roots in the depths of centuries. Never before, humanity did not know the material that embodied such wonderful qualities as the natural beauty of the eyes, simplicity of processing, strength and durability. Today, marble is mined in many countries, including Greece, Italy, Spain, India, Turkey, France, Belgium, United Kingdom, Ireland, USA, Brazil, Argentina, South Africa and many others.

Marble - - (Lat. Marmor, from Greek. Marmaros is a brilliant stone, stone block). Marble refers to metamorphic rocks formed as a result of recrystallization of carbonates (carbon-containing compounds) more than 2.5-4 billion years ago under the action of high temperatures and pressure. In the process of recrystallization in metamorphic marbles, as a rule, all traces of initial chip grains or fossil organic residues are destroyed. The composition of the marble in metamorphism does not change. The initial carbonate rocks for the formation of marble, as a rule, in most cases, limestone serves or dolomites. Accordingly, marble consists of calcite (calcium carbonate), or dolomite (calcium and magnesium carbonate), or from both minerals.

Marble can be seen in the exquisite interior of the Basilica of St. Paul in Rome, and on the walls of the Versailles Palace. And the first building built completely from marble was the famous Athenian treasury of the 6th century BC. The famous temple of Parfenon, built in the same period, became the main attraction of Athens, one of the wonders of the world. Although the word "marble" comes from the Greek word Marmaros, which means "flawless white shiny stone", you can meet a whole palette of the colors of this noble natural stone. Marble can be white or colored: pink, yellow, gray, blue, greenish, reddish, black, brown, as well as various combinations of these colors inherent in mramor. Even within the same field, a number of transitions are often found from one tone of marble color to another. A variety of marble shades arise due to the content in a larger or smaller number of oxides of various metals and graphite. Color mramor is characterized by the presence of residences, which are cracks filled with natural cement. These bodies can form an original drawing. The most valuable variety of marble is pure, white statue marble, which is used for the manufacture of sculptures.

The marble breed is durable, sufficiently wear-resistant, are dense, decorative, well processed and easily accepted polishing. The bulk weight of the marble ranges from 2.3 to 2.6 t / m3, marble porosity from 0.6 to 3.3%, the strength of marble for compression from 30 to 153 MPa, the hardness of this natural stone on the MOOS scale from 3 to 4, Marble water absorption is ranging from 0.02% (LEVADIA) to 3.3% (Travertino).

In marble, almost always contains impurities of other minerals (quartz, chalcedony, hematite, pyrite, limonitis, chlorite, etc.), as well as organic compounds. The impurities differ in the quality of marble, reducing or increasing the decorativeness of this natural stone. And sometimes nature presents real surprises. For example, on sections of some breeds of Italian exclusive marble (Fossil Nero - black with seashells), you can clearly see the prints of ancient mollusks. Such stones want to look at the clock. Most non-ferrous marbles have a pedestal color. The drawing is determined not only by the structure of marble, but also the direction to which natural stone is powered. Color and marble pattern manifest after polishing it.

Over time, the meaning of the word marble has expanded, including semi-cutting and dense polishing limestones used as marble. From the point of view of the market, the expressive content of the word was further expanded, until an understanding of the marbles of all the campanery materials that can be sawmed on the plates and a mirror polishing.

Properties of marble

We list the advantages of marble as a facing and building material.

  1. The relative transparency of marble creates on the surface of the sculpture the finest game of light and shadow.
  2. Uniformity and lack of large inclusions makes a marble structure more homogeneous.
  3. Ease of processing. Marble plastic, easy to polish and grinding. The marble is a fairly viscous and durable natural stone, so it does not immediately split at shocks, allowing it to carve products for various shapes.
  4. High decorative and hygienic marble properties. The classification of marble on decorative qualities and scope is based on the color gamut of the stone, since mineral impurities contained in it, affecting the color, can also reduce or increase the decorativeness of this natural stone and its strength. White marble is the most valuable and noble material - for external work it is not worth using: it is more sensitive to atmospheric influences, can be covered with spots and yellowed. However, white marble grades are widely used in the interior of the premises. Gray marbles are less susceptible to the harmful effects of the external environment, they are used everywhere both for outdoor and internal cladding. Colored marbles can have the most different color - from yellow and pink to green or black, it is characteristic of the presence of residences - cracks filled with natural cement. Residentials of another color are expanding the already rich range of colors and drawings inherent in natural stone, and such marble is considered particularly valuable due to their high aesthetic qualities. As a natural material, it has porosity and is able to "breathe", creating a favorable microclimate in the room. Back in ancient times, people knew about such a property of marble as bactericidity. Facing marble saunas, bathrooms and toilets is both beautiful and hygienic.
  5. Large gamma shades of marble allows mosaic panels from pieces of this natural stone, and even whole pictures.
  6. Waterproof of most marble types. The marble can be soft, porous, able to absorb and evaporate moisture, or on the contrary, to be quite solid and almost not to pass water. From here a wide range of applications of this natural stone in the interior finish or exterior finish at home. The properties of the stone depend on its structure. Small grade varieties with a homogeneous grain size have the greatest strength, wear resistance and durability. When mining marble relative to soft, this property facilitates its processing, and over time, the stone acquires hardness and become more durable. Marble with low water absorption coefficient (0.08-0.12%) can be used even to decorate bathrooms, pools, fountains.
  7. Frost resistance. Most marbles practically does not absorb moisture - therefore, when exposed to low temperatures, he does not face the appearance of microcracks from the freezing liquid. Mark products can be safely used in cold rooms.
  8. Heat resistance. The marble is not exposed to high temperatures, which allows it to be used for the manufacture of fireplaces or apply for finishing rooms with temperatures significantly exceeding the usual.
  9. Ecology. In terms of its natural radioactivity, marble refers to the first class and can be applied during the construction of all types of objects. As a natural stone, he has porosity and is able to "breathe" - it creates a favorable microclimate in the room. Everyone who visited Palace Anambles from Marble in St. Petersburg, noticed that atmosphere, which they are literally impregnated.
  10. Durability. White marbles have the first signs " age-related changes»Appear only after 100-150 years. And again, the marble of St. Petersburg, laid by the masters, can be given in the time of Peter, and retaining his beauty to the present.
  11. Universality. From marble can be made like large elements of the interior - stairs, wall panels, columns, and smaller, decorative details - table tops in the bathroom, window sills, vases, fireplaces, plinth, pilasters.

Like any other material, marble has not only advantages, but also disadvantages. To those can be attributed:

  • No acid resistance. Marble collapses from action of hydrochloric acid, and also exposed to food acids (lemon, acetic). This property is very limited to the use of marble in the manufacture kitchen countertops, Bar racks, other elements of the interior, the use of which involves contact with the acidic medium.
  • Natural softness limits the use of marble for outdoor decoration. In places with high passability, marble cladding very quickly loses its gloss and comes in disrepair.
  • Difficulties with the selection of marble of the same shade for large volumes. This property limits not so much the scope of marble as a list of marbles that are suitable for lining large areas.
  • Sciences of applying marble

The scope of the marble is truly impressive. The nobility of the textures, the variety of shades make this material attractive for the manufacture of a large number of facing elements of exclusive interiors. Main areas of use of marble: Bathrooms for bathrooms from marble and racks for bars, columns and sculpture, vases and figurines, Flooring flooring, walls, stairs from marble, plinth, railings, bales and handrails, Facing decorative elements from marble for fireplaces and fountains , marble pilasters, decoration of gardens and parks, marble benches, artistic and decorative mosaic and roses, outdoor and wall panels and much more.

TRAVERTINE

Travertines are a group of porous limestones formed by precipitation of calcium carbonate from hot or cold sources. It often contains plant prints, and sometimes terrestrial sinks or freshwater gastropods. Compared with dense limestones, there is a smaller density, cellularity, more frequent inclusions of the shell. The presence of a cavity, as well as the lamination inherent in traverse, is created on the surface of the processed stone drawings, emphasizing its texture and color.

Travertine is stronger than onyx, but weaker than marble. It is used for facing floors, walls, sometimes ceilings. Travertine is easily processed, and due to a lower stone density made from travertine parts and designs have less weight with sufficient strength. This causes their active use in creating elements of external and internal cladding. Travertines belong to moderately abrasive natural stones, so they can be used both as material for stairs and decorative elements Floors in places with low passability.

Pretty high thermal conductivity of travertine allows you to successfully apply it to design fireplaces. Travertine is not racks to the effects of different acids, so it is not recommended to use it as the main material of kitchen countertops.

Because of its physicochemical and decorative properties in St. Petersburg, travertine has won great popularity in the past few years. It was used to be used at the inner and external decoration of buildings, but the qualitative change in its final processing was only possible now thanks to the high-tech equipment of the last generation. Travertine tile can be longitudinal and transverse saw. At the same time, the traverse plate obtained with a cross-cutting and appropriate processing has wood texture.

More often, the color gamma travertines is presented within the framework of gentle-cream to golden-hidden. Rare for this natural stone are bright yellow and red colors.

The first travertine deposits were found in Italy, which today is one of its leading manufacturers. In addition, travertine is mined in Greece, Portugal, Morocco, Algeria, Mexico, Peru, Iran and other countries.

ONYX

Onyx (translated from the Greek "Nail") - the breed of the silicate composition of their group of chalcedone, a layered variety of agate. This natural stone was used by a person since ancient times, continues to be applied and now as a decorative and diverse material in the manufacture of various articles: gamars, elements of the Florentine mosaic, etc.

In the global market of facing natural stone under the word "onyx" implies a completely different natural material - the so-called marble onyx. This is a sedimentary breed of excess origin, consisting of a dense, translucent aggregate of grains and calcium carbonate fibers. Some foreign firms refer to the marble onyx calcite alabaster, just alabaster or alabastritis. Marble onyx is formed in thermal sources by layer-by-layer deposits from carbon dioxide saturated with calcium bicarbonate. With an optimal combination of certain conditions (change in the concentration in water of carbonate anhydrite, reaching certain acidity, reduced pressure, increase water temperature up to a boil) Calcium carbonate crystallization with the formation of marble onyx and travertine. At the same time, onyx fills emptiness and tectonic cracks, forms foreign form in the caves (stalagmites), or forms small layers in the thickness of limestone, travertines, sandstones, volcanic tuffs.

The main signs of decorative, according to which the marble onyx can be exhibited the highest ratings - this is a color, drawing, shockability, politicality. The onyx color varies in extremely wide limits: from milky white to beige, brown and brown-black, from golden yellow, pink and amber to orange and red, from light to dark green, from gently blue to blue. As with any natural stone, the color of the onyx is due to the content of certain impurities in it. White onyx naturally does not contain such impurities. Dark green onks are required by their color to high content of magnesium and copper impurities, light green onks - copper and iron. Yellow, brown or red oniques is due to the presence of impurities of various iron oxides. For coloring of marble onks, high purity and harmony of color are characterized: we practically do not meet here gray impurities, dirty shades or dissonating sites. The wavy-strip, less rapidly rescued or spotfully cloudy, onyx drawing, as it were, complements the color sound of natural stone, revives his aesthetics. For the drawing of most marble onks, the direction of cutting is very important, depending on which it can be, for example, with half or spotted. Perhaps the most unique decorative sign of marble onyx is its translucentness, not peculiar to most other facing natural stones. Due to the special orientation in the rock formation of crystals and fibers of calcium carbonate, onyx is able to skip the rays of light to a depth of 50-60 mm, which allows it to be used in addition to traditional cladding as stained glass. The high dispersion of Onyx gives a special effect and its drawing, which acquires depth, the natural stone itself can serve as a stained glass window without any special inlair. The advantages of the appearance of the marble onyx should also be attributed to its excellent politicalness, not inferior to the best grades of marble.

Properties of marble onyxes

The physico-mechanical and technological properties of marble onixes are generally similar to the properties of most fine-grained marbles: average density is 2700-2900 kg. / cubic me; water absorption - 0.1-0.3%; Porosity - 0.3-0.95%; compressive strength - 50-110 MPa; The abrasability is 1.0-1.9 g / sq. See such indicators make it possible to use onyxes in the same wide area as the best grade marble. Many of the varieties of marble onuxes have a high frost resistance, but this elite material for external facing of buildings in the practice of European architecture has not had to be used.

Decorative and operational properties contributed to the widespread spread of marble onyx in St. Petersburg when used in modern architecture and design. This elite finishing natural stone is used for interior decoration and exterior: tile, mosaic, window and door stained glass windows, interior items, furniture inlay.

When cladding onyx walls and columns, a completely different visual effect of this material can be obtained depending on the method of installing the plates: when they are attached directly to the base (on the substrate neutral) onyx visually be perceived in the reflected light as high-screen marble, but with deep color and drawing; When installing the plates with the leaving of the free space between the stone and the wall (where the light source is placed) onyx in the transmitted light will be perceived as a stained glass window. Such an effect may not necessarily be obtained on walls or columns: "Glow" onyx can be created on floors, stairs, racks, etc. When cladding onex plates of windows and openings of the outer walls of the building, such an effect (or even stronger) can be achieved by the natural source of lighting - sun rays. Good marble onyx allowance allows it to be very successful to use it when interior design: decorative columns, lamps, backlit tables can be perfectly harmonized with other attributes of the rooms of the rooms.

Another direction of interior decoration is a device of decorative elements of fireplaces, for parts of which marble onyx can also be used.

The low water absorption indicator makes it possible to use onixes for the manufacture of all sorts of baths and shells. In this case, the effect of the inner depth and color shades of materials will be perfectly combined with the "deep" effect of the aqueous medium and highlights on its surface.

For use for therapeutic purposes, it is recommended to use onyx tiles to finish a bathroom, a relaxing room, like coverage of massage tables, swimming pools. Onyx applied for diseases nervous system and depressions. It removes stress, facilitates pain, contributing to emotional equilibrium and self-control. Onyx increases potency, rejuvenates the body, helps to get rid of indecision and constancy. This is a stone confident people. Lithotherapists believe that onyx contributes to the accumulation of vital energy.

About this magnificent natural stone You can write a lot of enthusiastic words, but in order to understand how awesome and beautiful stone, it must be seen.

Characteristics of natural stone

Decorativeness is a conditional characteristic that determines the richness of color, drawing, the textures of the breed of granite, marble, travertine, or natural stone of another breed, its aesthetic appeal. For different functional purposes, there may be different criteria for determining the most significant decorative signs.

Workability and polisurability are characteristics that determine the degree of fattyness of natural stone processing and the complexity of imparting the surface of the polished form stone. These indicators should be taken into account when choosing a natural stone breed for complex accurate products or polished surfaces.

The strength of natural stone is one of the most important properties of natural stone in construction. Natural stone is the most durable of natural materials And the most wear-resistant. The higher the strength, the longer than time Stone services. Depending on the hardness of minerals that are part of rock, and, largely determining its properties, natural stones are conventionally divided into three groups: durable (quartzites, granites, gabbro), high strength (marbles, limestone, travertines), low strength (loose limestone, tuffs).

The density of marble, granite and other types of natural stone depends on the porosity of rocks and minerals included in its composition. By density, natural stone is divided into light (density up to 2,200 kg / m3) and heavy (density of more than 2,200 kg / m3) of the breed. For example, granite and marble belong to the category of heavy breeds of natural stone.

The porosity of granite, marble, onyx, limestone is determined by the presence in the breed of air pores, their size, quantity and location. This characteristic directly affects the density of natural stone. Porosity to one degree or another is characterized by all breeds of natural stone, however, the lower, the more durable stone. For example, granite has a very low porosity, marble porosity is higher than that of granite. The porosity of natural stone affects water absorption, and therefore, on the stability of the natural stone to the temperature changes, to the effects of acids and in the end - for the life of the product from natural stone. In addition, the strength of natural stone decreases with increasing porosity. The smallest number of pores in granite, Gabbro, Labradorite, the greatest - in limestone. With an increase in the total porosity, the strength and volume of natural stone decreases, its politicality deteriorates, but at the same time the weight of the product is reduced and the ability of natural stone to process is reduced.

The water absorption and frost resistance of natural stone is another important property of granite, marble and other types of natural stone. This property is associated with the porosity of the natural stone. From water absorption and from the mineral composition of natural stone, acids and salinity of stone, as well as its frost resistance, i.e., the characteristic of the natural stone, which is most important for products from granite and marble.

Acid resistance - Property of natural stone breeds react to the effects of different acids. Marble, travertines, limestones and dolomites are destroyed from hydrochloric acid. Marble is also subject to lemon and acetic acids that are actively used in everyday life in the process of cooking. A row of acids are used as cleansing and disinfectants. In external environmentEspecially in cities, a number of sufficiently active acids are also formed. Frequent contact with low acid-resistance natural stone acids can quickly lead to the destruction of not only the surface, but also the entire array of the marble or other rock. This indicator is important for natural stone used in the internal finish for surfaces in contact with food products, as well as with an external decoration.

Salt resistance of natural stone - the ability of salt to penetrate the stone along with water and settle after drying inside the pores in the form of concentrated solutions that contribute to the growth of crystals. In the occurrence of crystallization structures, a significant internal pressure is created, which contributes to the destruction of natural stone. With high porosity, the crystallization pressure is distributed evenly and the solventiness of rocks is usually high. At low or uneven porosity of natural stone, crystallization pressure is dangerous, especially with high water absorption. Solutions characteristics must be considered in the manufacture of natural stone products for interior decorations as tabletops made of granite and marble, and other breeds, windowsills from granite and marble, work surfaces in kitchens and utility rooms, as well as for external finishing using natural stone.

The thermal conductivity of natural stone depends on the density and porosity of the stone. Usually, more porous and less dense types of natural stone are thermally conductive. The characteristics of thermal conductivity are especially important for the use of natural stone for interior decoration, for example, with a device of warm floors or cladding of fireplaces with granite or marble.

The abrasibility (wear resistance) of natural stone is relevant for those breeds of natural stone, plates from which is expected to cover the floor or staircase. What it is lower, the thicker will be a layer, erasable with a stone plate "Pedestrians". Wear resistance is associated with the hardness of natural stone, that is, its ability to resist the penetration of others, more solid tel. Most often, the degree of hardness of granite, marble and other breeds of natural stone are determined on the Moos scale. According to it, for 1 adopted hardness Talca, for 10 - hardness of diamond. At the same time, granite receives an "estimate" 6, marble-3, limestone - 1-5.

Group of breeds of natural stone deposit (mm) at the intensity of human streams 1 million. in year:

  1. Quartzites and breeds of granite groups - less than 0.12
  2. Basalts, microcrystalline marble - 0.12-0.35
  3. Loose basalts, marble, sandstones, dolomites - 0.35-0.6
  4. Marble limestone, travertines
  5. Loose limestones 1.5-2.5

The approximate intensity of the human stream depending on the objects of using natural stone, the number of people per year:

  1. Transport arteries (metropolitan, stations) - 4 million.
  2. Supermarkets, transition zones, stadiums - 1 million.
  3. Public buildings (shops, schools, institutes) - 500 thousand.
  4. Hotels, theaters - 200 thousand.
  5. Potions of high-rise buildings - 100 thousand
  6. Personal apartments - 20 thousand

Specifications of natural stone

The technical characteristics of natural stone are determined by the peculiarities of the structure of rocks, depending on the conditions of their formation, are expressed in structural and textural features.

The structure of granite and marble is determined by the degree of crystallinity and grain size, as well as the shape and mutual relations of the components of the breed of natural stone.

The texture is a combination of signs determined by the location and distribution of components of the granite, marble or natural stone of a different breed relative to each other in the space occupying.

The texture and sizes of granite, marble, etc.

The interior design or exterior depends not only on the breed of natural stone and its colors, but also from the texture of the facial surface of granite, marble and other natural stone rocks. The current GOST 9480-89 provides for its following varieties:

  • Polished - with mirror glitter, clear reflection of objects, without traces of processing the previous operation. Polishing especially pronounced color and pattern of natural stone. It is not recommended that the use of such plates from granite and marble on floors in wet rooms and for external stairs and sites (without applying an anti-slip bucrhydrated band) - when the water has a polished surface of natural stone becomes slippery;
  • Smooth matte (rugged) - without traces of processing the previous operation and with the full detection of the marble pattern or other natural stone;
  • Grinding - evenly rough, with traces of processing obtained only during grinding, with relief irregularities height up to 0.5 mm. Grinding makes the surface of the products from marble and granite is uniformly rough, the drawing of a natural stone is smoothed. On dark and patterned products from natural stone, grinding is completely not winning, as the color is almost completely cleaned. It is recommended for granite floors, where it is necessary to reduce the slip, and for external steps and platforms;
  • Sawn - uneven rough - with roughliness of relief up to 2 mm high, smaller than a ground surface, with a detected color and a pattern of natural stone;
  • Treated with ultrasound surface of marble or granite products - with a detected color and pattern of granite or marble breed;
  • Heat treated (burned fire) The surface of products made of natural stone - rough, with traces of peeling, looks slightly "melted", which makes it more bright than when grinding, show the color and texture of granite or marble. It is recommended for outdoor cladding (steps, natural stone sites);
  • Point (beaded) The surface of the granite is uniformly rough, with roughness of the relief height up to 5 mm. Granite processed by this method is particularly effective where it is undesirable or impossible to use polished natural stone, namely, with external work (scene, platform before the entrance, exterior steps from natural stone, etc.);
  • Kololaya ("rock") - imitates the natural split of the breed of granite or marble, with relief irregularities height from 50 to 200 mm, without traces of the instrument;
  • The facial surface of the plates of natural stone can be artificially aged. Such processing of the product surface is recommended for "textured", porous, soft marbles. A compiled marble is not only facing the surfaces, various borders are made from it, rosettes from natural stone, mosaic carpets;
  • Plates with sandblasting processing of products from marble, granite and other breeds of natural stone are available, on such a surface, scratches are low. The use of plates of natural stone with sandblasting for finishing of the floor in wet zones significantly increases the comfort and safety of the coating.

Natural stone radioactivity

According to "Requirements for the Limit of Population" Efficient Specific Activity (AEF) of natural radionuclides in building materials (crushed stone, gravel, sand, butterfly and sawn (natural) stone, cement and brick raw materials, etc.) mined at their deposits or being side Product of industry, as well as industrial waste used for the manufacture of building materials (ash, slags, etc.), should not exceed:

  • for materials (natural stone) used in constructed and reconstructed residential and public buildings (I class) 370 BC / kg;
  • for materials used in road construction within the territory of settlements and prosecution areas, as well as during the construction of industrial structures (II class), 740 BC / kg;
  • for materials used in road construction outside the settlements (III class) 1.5 KBK / kg. At 1.5 kbq / kg< Аэфф<4,0 кБк/кг (IV класс).

The question of the use of materials (including granite, marble and other breeds of natural stone) is solved in each case separately in coordination with the Federal Body of GosanaPidnadzor.

With AEF\u003e 4.0 KBK / kg Materials (granite, marble, etc. Natural stone) should not be used in construction.

The greatest radiation background is peculiar to granites, but even the most "fountaining" granites (about 2% of all of all mined in the world) refer to the second class.

The absolute majority of natural stone species are harmless to use both outside residential premises and inside them.

Benefits of natural stone

What is in principle a natural stone differs from artificial stone?

What is the fundamental difference between a real diamond from artificial? What is the difference between natural black caviar from the caviar produced by an industrial way? After all, in appearance it is difficult to distinguish them from the original? The difference in consumer properties is that it will never be replaced by the nature created by nature invented and produced by a person. Such a rich and diverse combination of colors inherent in natural stone is impossible to achieve in any artificial material. It should also be considered the fact that products that imitate granite and marble are created on the basis of polyester resins, which is not very well affected by the environmental situation in places where they are applied, while natural stone, including marble, granite, onyx, On the contrary, is an excellent antiseptic in nature.

Here you have 8 arguments in favor of choosing a natural stone as a material for decorating your interior:

  1. Each product from granite and marble is unique, the interior is unique, as it is impossible to repeat the drawing and the color gamut created by nature.
  2. Interior design with natural stone - "Business card" of success, wealth and excellent taste.
  3. Products from marble and granite are not aging, always remain fashionable and stylish.
  4. In addition to high aesthetic properties, natural stone has a number of other advantages: historical image, elitism, the possibility of obtaining products of almost any form (ball, hyperboloid, "fabric folds", etc.)
  5. The indisputable dignity of natural stone is durability, durability, resistance to environmental impact, frost resistance.
  6. Natural stone, especially marble, environmental and hygienic: does not have a negative impact on the human body, and moreover, it has a bactericidal action.
  7. Another quality of natural stone is inertness, that is, granite and marble do not react with substances contained in other building and finishing materials.
  8. Rich decorative features of marble products and other natural stone, multiplicity of visual effects, which is explained by the wealth of color and texture, to which the architects paid attention to even in deep antiquity.

In natural stone, there are also cons, but most of its flaws are rather contrived, rather than real. Even around obvious facts, there are sometimes formed as many speculations that it is impossible to understand what the shortcomings of natural stone and how significant they are rather difficult. The main objective disadvantage of natural stone is its weight. Indeed, granite and marble and indeed are among the most difficult finishing materialsAnd this factor must be taken into account. But this does not mean that from natural stone you need to refuse only on the grounds that it weighs too much. Simply in each specific case, it is necessary to carry out individual calculations, based on the height of the building, the breed of natural stone, the thickness of the facing plates, the total weight of the cladding, take into account the method of fastening, the thickness and material of the walls, and many other factors.

In addition to the above-listed natural stone, most often comparable at a price with an artificial stone. Sometimes the cost of the product from natural granite or marble is lower than from its "brothers" - artificial analogues.

Methods of mining stone

The quality of the stone is strongly affected by the way it is mined. There are three main ways to extract a stone. The most handicraft of them and, unfortunately, the most common in Russia - mining with the help of an explosion. In rock formation, the drilling method is made deep hole, where the charge is laid and undermined. Among the breakaway pieces of rock, the biggest boulders are selected, which are then cut onto the plates. The advantages of such a method of mining stone are that it is extremely suited. But minuses outweigh this plus. First, the quality of the mined breed suffers: during an explosion in the structure of the stone, microcracks arise, which affect the strength of the material. Secondly, such a method of developing a field is extremely undisposed, since when the breed explosion it crumbs: large blocks suitable for the saw are not more than 70%, and the remaining 30% go into waste.

The second method of production of natural stone is a method of chipping with an airbag. It is similar to the first method that the hole is also done in the breed, the reservoir is laid in it, which is pumped by air under high pressure. This method allows to avoid the appearance of microcracks in the structure of the stone and is more economical in terms of the expenditure of the field, and also allows you to more accurately predict the breakdown sites of the breed than with a practically uncontrolled explosion.

The third, most expensive way to extract natural stone - the Kamneza method - today is most popular. Stone mining This method allows to completely avoid microcracks and makes it possible to most rationally develop the field.

Preface

Given the characteristics of the granite, one can safely say that this is very durable material, and therefore it is very common in construction.

Granite (Granum) Translated from Latin means "grain". In the continental earthly crust is the most common rock. Natural stone Granite is a red-crystalline grainy massive, formed in the process of slow cooling and further hardening the magmatic melt at great depth. Also, the origin of granite is possible in metamorphism, that is, in the process of graniting different breeds. At the same time, it is very often granite arrays that are attributed to the metamorphic, magmatic, and more often - mixed origin.

Given the characteristics of the granite, one can safely say that this is very durable material, and therefore it is very common in construction. One of the most important characteristics of the breed is its strength.

Technical characteristics of granite

Density: 3.17 g / cm 3
Bulk weight ( specific gravity Granite): 2.7 g / cm 3
Strength of compression in a water-saturated state: 550 kg / cm 2, in a dry state - 604 kg / cm 2
Water absorption: 0,2%;
Frost resistance: 25
Frequency reduction ratio: 0,9
Moos hardness: 6-7
Abrasability: 1.4 g / cm 2 m

If compared, then the strength of granite is 2 times higher. Hardness is ensured by the presence of quartz. by means of diamond. In contrast to the same marble, granite products do not lose their operational performance and appearance When used in a temperature difference, which makes up more than 100 degrees. The granite stone is not terrous frost -60 ° C and heat more than +50 degrees, which is very important in the conditions of a non-permanent Russian climate. Even in the most extreme conditions, the stone products look impeccably and maintain their strength. In addition, granite is less than marble, exposed to fungal defeats.

Another advantage of the stone is its fire safety. The melting point is +700 degrees.

The strength of all materials depends on the level of moisture absorption. According to this indicator, granite exceeds the remaining materials. The magnitude of moisture absorption depends on the location of the stone. More dense layers of deposits determine the high characteristics of the produced rock, in particular by moisture-absorption. The depth of occurrence, affecting the strength and density of the rock, largely determines the scope of its use.

Granite, specifications which are already familiar, has a high resistance to environmental impact, including atmospheric precipitation and different acids. Does not affect the operational characteristics and cycles of freezing and thawing, the number of which can reach a few hundred times.

The frost resistance of the stone is ensured due to the fact that it practically does not absorb moisture. Such properties allow you to use the breed for facing embankments. To note, most of the granite embankments St. Petersburg is laid during Peter I, which indicates the strength and durability of the material.

Depending on the grain size, granites are:

  • Fine-grained (up to 2 mm);
  • Mediterranean (25 mm);
  • Coarse-grained (more than 5 mm).

If you take fine-grained granite, the stones properties will be much higher. The fine-grained group is better with the mechanical effects. It is more evenly engaged in operation, more stable for weathering, less cracks when heated.

This group is considered the highest quality and expensive. High strength, complete waterproof and resistance to destruction. Insufficient fire resistance are characterized by coarse samples. When heated over 600 degrees, they begin to increase in volume and crack. Therefore, in residential buildings, freserving granite steps and stairs can be observed in residential buildings.

Despite the high strength and density, the stone is well processed: it cuts, polished and polished. Given the good thermal conductivity, the granite stone is often used for the heater.

Undoubtedly, the above characteristics are advantages and advantages of this material. However, like any other construction materialThe granite stone has its drawbacks. The main "minus" is volume weight Granite, at the expense of which the breed is considered one of the most height. This characteristic must be taken into account in construction projects.

Chemical and structural composition of granite

Granite is a rock, having a crystalline grain structure. Considering chemical composition, the breed is rich in silica acid, enriched with alkalis, in smaller quantity it contains iron, calcium and magnesium.

Composition in average values:

  • 60-65% - field splits (plagioclases and orthoclas);
  • 25-30% - quartz;
  • 5-10% - Dark color minerals (predominantly biotit, less often - and horn cheating).

Granites, which contain 10% of the plagioclase, are called alkaline-field-spa. If there are 5% - relate to Alaskit.

The color of the breed depends on the nature of those present in the field of fields. Most often stone color gray with different shades: pink, red, orange, gray-blue, rarely bluish-green.


Also on the formation of color affect the dark color components (horn cheating, biotit). These elements are more likely to give the breed dark colorAnd sometimes - greenish tint.


An example of this is the Yantsev granite. As for quartz, most often he is bluntly, therefore does not affect the nature of the color.


At the same time, you can meet a stone with black quartz, the so-called Cherokhantse, and sometimes - pink-pink (amethyst granite Sweden).


Very rare are copies with blue quartz.


The most decorative characteristics have fine-grained samples of light gray color with a blue tint. Also in demand dark red stones and green-blue varieties.

Appearance stone

Granite is a magmatic breed that is well polished. In this case, the resulting mirror surface remains for a long time even with an exterior facing.


In addition, the stone freely gives up Tesse and easily acquires various climbing textures. The resulting embossed texture of the granite surface favorably emphasizes the monumentality of structures while achieving an interesting decorative effect of the game of lighting on the surface, which is often combined with shiny mica plates.


And some types of granite semi-decorative texture only after heat treatment. Most often, this concerns light gray varieties, which after processing become almost sugar-white.


If you look at this photo of granite, the stone in the context clearly transmits not only light, but also textural differences of varieties.

Granite deposits

The main form of occurrence is battles, which are a huge massive with a capacity of up to 4 km and a few hectares. Usually the breed sits in the form of ducks, rods and other intrusual bodies. Sometimes it is found that granite magma formed layered injections. In this case, granite forms a series of plastophone bodies, which alternate with metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.

As for distribution, the stone is distributed on all continents. Most often, he goes to the surface of the Earth in those areas that are composed of ancient rocks, where overlapping deposits collapsed in the process of erosion-deduction process.

In the US, the breed is found along the entire coast Atlantic Ocean, in the north of the country, in the Black Hills Mountains and in the central part of the Ozark Plateau. Mostly, stone is mined in Wisconsin, Georgia, Vermont and South Dakota.

Granite, whose deposits are known throughout the world, is common and with us. More than 200 deposits are operated in the post-Soviet space. Of these, the biggest: Mokryanskoe (Zaporizhia region, Ukraine), Malokokhnovskoye (Poltava region, Ukraine), Mikashevichi (Brest region, Belarus).

In the territory Russian Federation Granite is widespread in the Urals, in the Karelian Kola region, in the Far East, in Eastern Siberia, in the Caucasus. In total, more than 50 deposits are known where the piece stone is mined. Booth I. granite crusp mining in the liking, pronsezh, on the Karelian Isthmus, in Voronezh and Arkhangelsk region, in the Sverdlovsk and Chelyabinsk regions, in the Khabarovsk Territory and Primorye, in East Transbaikalia. Rapakivi granites in the North-West of Russia, as well as amazanic varieties of Ilmen Mountains and Transbaikalia differ in high decorative characteristics. Many deposits work periodically, mainly on Booth and crushed stone. As needed, granite blocks are mined, from which facing plates are obtained. Also, the obtained blocks are trimmed into a piece stone or are used by one-piece in monumental architecture.

Granite varieties

In the nature and content of dark color components, such types of granite are distinguished:

  • Alaskit - does not contain dark color inclusions;
  • Lakeocrates (leukographed) - reduced dark color;
  • Biotite - Biotit content 6-8%;
  • Double - contains biotit and muscovit;
  • ROROVABMANKOVOVOVOVOVOE AND CORNOGMANKO-BIOTIT VEDY - contains a hornble and a hornbear with biotite, respectively;
  • Lithium fluorinist - contains lithium mica (zinnvalitis, protolytonitis);
  • Pyroxen - Low masked, consists of avgita, quartz, orthoclase;
  • Alkaline View - Contains alkaline amphiboles, egin, orthoclases, albite or microclin.

Types of granite on structural and textural characteristics:

Porphyry-shaped - contains isometric or elongated intersions, which are more or less different in size from the bulk (can reach 5-10 cm). Usually represented by microclin, quartz and orthoclase;

Pegmatoid - granite breed with a characteristic uniform graininess. The size of the inclusions of quartz and field spat 2-3 cm;

Finnish granite (Rapakivi) is a porphyrene breed, for which numerous rounded splashes of the red-colored orthoclase of up to 5 cm, surrounded by a border of gray or gray-green oligoclase. As the main mass, the aggregate of grains of plagioclase, orthoclase, biotite, quartz and horny bells;

Gneisovid - the usual uniformly fine-grained stone, for which the overall rough-parallel orientation of mica scales, or grains of horny deceptions.

One of the common structural varieties is pegmatite (muscovite) granite consisting of orthoclase, quartz and muscovite. A characteristic representative of this species is a written granite, in which the field split sprouts the formations of quartz of a thin wedge-shaped form that resembles ancient European letters.

Another interesting variety is Rapackivi (translated from Finnish - "Rotina Stone"). It is a porphy wild difference with a large content of oscalid.

A special kind is the amazonitic granite of a bluish-green and green shade, containing a green field spat.

Pink-red and red leather granite, named by the deposit, differs in particular popularity and durability. It is worth noting that many types of granite are called by the name of the deposits. So, the red stone is called Mezhdurechensky (Mezhdurechenskoe deposit), Simonovsky (Simonovskoye), Emelyanovsky, Tokovsky, Kapustinsky. Gray Stone: Pokostovsky, Corninsky, Sofievsky, Zhelelaevsky.

White granite, which, like marble, is more collective concept, as white is called not only snow-white samples, but all other specimens of light color, as close as possible to white. Color can vary from light green to pearl gray.

Natural stone granite on video:

The word granite has a Latin origin. The concept is translated as "granule". The name of the rock has received its grainy structure. Mineral granules in stone are large and small. The first option is a consequence of a slow cooling of the solicified mineral masses under the surface of the Earth. The second case, on the contrary, is evidence of the rapid hardening of the breed. It underlies almost all the continents, being the most common on the planet among non-metallic matters.

Physical I. chemical properties Granite

Breed monolithium allows you to cut large blocks. Therefore, the stone is often choosing architects and sculptors, creating, for example, for large-scale ideas. monuments from granite. The breed is well polished. It is not porous, which prevents the material from choosing moisture and crack from external influences. Granite out of the temperature differences. It also does not give in corrosion.

On the physical properties Granite affects its structure. Small-grained samples are denser. They are easier polished, more durable. The coarse breed is quickly engaged. It is especially not like climbers, climbers. They know that the granules of the stone are so obvious that they abridge in the blood of her knees and hands. So on granite rocks people Climb into gloves, knee pads, special shoes.

The breed includes: quartz, orthoclases, mica. Their number fluctuates within 20 to 70 percent. The remaining interest includes dozens of other minerals. Their selection depends on the place of formation of stone.


Since granite refers to acidic rocks, there are ceriums, lanthanum and other elements of a rare-earth group in small pieces. All of them radioactive mi give not light background and granite. The radiation level is usually negligible, not dangerous for a person. However, for loyalty, geologists check deposits to be developed. Experts are drilled in the material of the holes, lower the dosimeter in them, give taboos or good to the extraction of stone.

Regardless of the composition, the granite cannot be squeezed. This ensures the eternal service of the stone to people, but complicates its processing. Marble, for example, much plastic.

Coloring and granite color

Stone graniteit has different shades. The paint is determined by the amount in the rock of the orthoclase. This mineral belongs to the category of field spatts. It happens different colors, but it is always found only in acidic magmatic rocks.


In accordance with the orthoclase, granite is often grayish tones, less often - orange, pinkish, reddish, with a shade of blue or green. Recent paints are no longer an orthoclase, but biotit and horn cheating.

Sometimes, the color of granite affects quartz. Usually, it is colorless, but the breed is found with a pink species of mineral. It is called amethyst. It is known as an amicing stone. There are granites with black quartz and his blue variety. Most high granite price It is bluish-gray tone.

Granite deposits

In Russia, almost 110 granite deposits are taken into account. There are on domestic expanses and the same blue breed. It is mined in the Murmansk region at the Serebryan career. It is worth noting that 100 deposits are recorded in the reserves of the country. But, ten more deposits are divided and listed on the balance of only regional geological services. So, in fact, the granite reserves of Russia are about 200 deposits. They are mainly hidden granite of white and reddish tones. The latter is called ural granite. There are even the brand name of the same name. Her specialization - ceramic granite. The company on a large scale makes tiles.

The global leader in the production of granite products is not Russia. Championship in Italy. The deposits are concentrated on Sardinia. This island gives the world pink, amethyst breed. The same is mined in Sweden, but on a smaller scale.


Half of the volume of stone on the Eurasian continent mined the British. More than hundreds of breed varieties are available in France. Spain is famous for light gray fine-grained granite. The export of granite blocks specializes in Finland. In the year, this country delivers the world about 80,000 cubic meters breed.

From the granite, by the way, is folded third in the height of the mountain in the world. Peak is called Kanchenjang. Mountain height is 8586 meters. The peak is in the Himalayas and is inferior to Everest just 262 meters.

Application of granite

Granite - building material. Buildings from it are not destroyed by thousands of years. Less durable structures only lined with stone. The granite make paving slabs, ceramic plates for floors and interior decorations. The material is considered elite in the furniture world. The breed goes on the table top, details of chairs, sofas, bar racks. From granite make crafts, decor items, for example, vases.


Granite is especially used in the kitchen interior. Lovers of natural stone choose, as a rule, between marble and granite. But marble is less resistant to chemical impact. Granite does not react almost with any substances. For kitchens, this is especially important.


Granite borders are decorated with many embankments. The sculptures, monuments are pulled out of the stone. Buy granitethey strive for the construction of hydraulic focus structures. All data on granite is easy to find in the literature. The most complete scientific work is the "geology of granite" E. RAGEN. A distinctive feature of the book is a simple language. The edition is easy to understand not even a specialist.