Our extensive range of contemporary and traditional mantels are handcrafted in three stunning natural stones. Aegean Limestone, Portuguese Limestone and Corinthian Stone all have unique characteristics. The beauty of natural stone is that colour variances, fossil formation and veining enhance the features of a fireplace. The unique features of these natural stones make them a popular choice for architects, designers and homeowners looking for a high-quality and versatile material.
Below, we explore the history of these natural stones and why they are an excellent choice for fireplace surrounds.
Aegean Limestone
Sourced from the Eastern Mediterranean, Aegean Limestone is primarily formed from the accumulation of marine fossils, including shells and skeletons of marine organisms such as corals, molluscs, and foraminifera.
The formation of Aegean Limestone begins with the accumulation of these marine organisms on the ocean floor. As they die, their shells and skeletons settle to the bottom and become buried by sediment. Over time, the weight of the overlying sediment compresses and consolidates the shells and skeletons. The result of this process is the creation of a sedimentary rock known as limestone.
The Aegean region of Turkey has a particularly rich history of marine life due to its location on the Mediterranean Sea. Consequently, the warm waters and abundance of nutrients support a diverse range of marine organisms, contributing to the formation of Aegean Limestone.
One of the most notable characteristics of Aegean Limestone is its unique texture. The stone is typically creamy white in colour and is characterised by its fine-grained, homogenous structure. As a result of how the Limestone is formed, the stone is infused with thousands of tiny fossils. These fossils can loosen during the manufacturing process, resulting in the surface of the stone having a slightly pitted appearance.
In addition, one of the things that sets Aegean Limestone apart from other natural stone materials is its sustainability. The stone is quarried using environmentally friendly methods. The industry is regulated by the Turkish government to ensure that the quarrying process is done in a responsible and sustainable way.
Portuguese Limestone
As the name suggests, Portuguese Limestone is quarried from various regions in Portugal. Portuguese Limestone is characterised by darker veining alongside fossilised plants and animal life.
Like other types of limestone, Portuguese limestone is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which is formed through a process known as lithification. The lithification process begins with the accumulation of organic and inorganic sedimentary particles. Fragments of shells, skeletons, and other debris gather on the floor of a shallow sea. Over time, as additional layers of sediment accumulate, the weight of the overlying material compacts and consolidates the lower layers, which compresses them into a solid rock. The process of lithification can take tens of thousands of years to complete. Quarried limestone can be several hundred million years old!
The unique characteristics of Portuguese limestone, including its colour and texture, are determined by a variety of factors. The type of sedimentary material that was present during its formation, the depth at which it was formed, and the length of time that it has been exposed to environmental factors such as heat and pressure are all contributing factors.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, Portuguese limestone is known for its natural beauty and versatility. The unique texture and veining patterns of the limestone also add to its visual appeal, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
Corinthian Stone
Originating from the Western Mediterranean, Corinthian Stone is a honed limestone characterised by its sandy colour with a slight grey tonality and clusters of fossils.
Corinthian Stone is a type of sedimentary rock that is formed through a process known as bioclastic accumulation. This means that it is primarily made up of the remains of organisms such as shells and other skeletal fragments. These fragments amass over time and become cemented together. The formation of Corinthian Stone begins with the accumulation of these organic fragments on the bottom of a shallow, warm marine environment. Over time, the weight of the accumulating material compacts the sediment and causes it to undergo a process known as lithification.
The geological formation where Corinthian Stone is quarried was once covered by a shallow sea. This stone is composed mainly of calcium carbonate, with small amounts of other minerals and impurities. The characteristic colour of Corinthian Stone comes from the presence of fossilised shells and other organic matter.
The formation of Corinthian Stone is a gradual process that takes place over millions of years.
Properties of Natural Stone Fireplaces
Heat Resistance
One of the most important properties of any fireplace surround is its ability to withstand heat. Natural stones are dense and durable, capable of withstanding high temperatures without cracking or warping. Therefore, natural stone is an excellent choice for a fireplace surround or hearth as it will be exposed to constant heat at times.
Durability
Natural stones are hard and durable, helping them withstand wear and tear over time. Generally, natural stones are resistant to scratching and chipping making it an excellent choice for high-usage areas like a fireplace. With proper care and maintenance, a stone fireplace can last for many years and retain its natural beauty.
Aesthetics
Natural stones have a unique and attractive appearance making it a popular choice for fireplace surrounds. From creamy white to sandy beige, natural stone surrounds occasionally feature fossilised shells and other organic matter. Fossils add interest and texture to your fireplace, making it even more distinctive. What a great conversation starter it would be to have a fossil in your fireplace!
Sustainability
Limestone is a sustainable and environmentally friendly building material. It is a natural material that is mined from quarries which have a relatively low environmental impact. It is also a renewable resource, as new stone can be mined to replace what is used. Natural stone is one of the world’s first ‘green’ materials owing to the fact that it doesn’t require additional materials or resources to create it.
Versatility
Natural stones are a versatile material that can be used in a variety of fireplace designs, traditional or classic. Variances in colour, pattern and veining add character and visual appeal. Various styles and aesthetics can be achieved by cutting, shaping and finishing in different ways. Overall, the versatility of natural stone lies in its wide range of types, aesthetic appeal, compatibility with different styles, design options, durability and sustainability.
For a natural stone fireplace as unique as your home, view our range of mantels here.
