Curiosities about natural rocks: what they are and types of extraction
Natural rocks stand out not only for their beauty but also for their origin and the extraction process that makes them available for various applications. But do you know what they are and how they are extracted?
In this article, we will look at these natural wonders and explore their various types, extraction methods, and the benefits they bring to architecture and decoration projects.
What are natural rocks?
Natural rocks are stone elements extracted from nature used in the construction and decoration of environments. They are generally applied in coatings, floors, countertops, sculptures, and other decorative elements.
The Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) defines natural rock as: "natural stone material used in internal and external coatings, structures, architectural composition elements, decoration, furniture, etc."
Main types of natural rocks
Each natural rock is classified according to its technical and mineralogical composition. Among the various types marketed, the main ones are:
- Quartzite — a metamorphic rock mainly composed of quartz. Its high resistance and durability, combined with a diverse and unique appearance, with lower porosity and greater resistance to stains and scratches, make it excellent for countertops, floors, and general coatings.
- Marble — a metamorphic rock mainly composed of calcite or dolomite. Its crystalline texture and striking veins confer elegance to floors, walls, countertops, and sculptures.
- Granite — a magmatic rock mainly composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Its granular texture and high resistance make it ideal for countertops, floors, and external coatings.
- Travertine — travertine is a sedimentary rock formed by the precipitation of calcium carbonate in freshwater continental environments, such as hot springs. Travertine comes in various shades of beige, brown, orange, or gray. Used since Ancient Rome in the construction of monuments like the Colosseum, travertine proves to be a timeless rock.
Types of extraction of natural rocks
The extraction of natural rocks is a complex process that requires specific techniques to ensure the preservation of the integrity of the rocks and the safety of workers.
For each location, there is a specific method for extracting the rock, and determining this requires studies of the site. The main methodologies include:
- Open-pit mining;
- Underground mining;
- Block mining.
Applications and benefits of natural rocks
When we think of the benefits of natural rocks, the first things that come to mind are aesthetics, versatility, and the enhancement of spaces.
However, natural rocks can also offer thermal comfort, keeping the temperature pleasant in both summer and winter.
Regarding their application, we can think of situations such as:
- Coatings — walls, floors, facades, pools, fireplaces, and barbecues.
- Countertops — kitchens, bathrooms, gourmet areas, and offices.
- Sculptures and decorative elements — fountains, vases, columns, mosaics, panels, and other pieces.
- Furniture — tables, sinks, washbasins, and other items that combine functionality and beauty.
If you are looking for natural rocks of high quality for your project, Decolores can help you! We offer a wide variety of marbles, granites, and quartzites that will meet your needs.
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Can quartzite be used in the swimming pool?
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