01 / Geological family
Origin and composition
- Geological family
- Igneous
- Origin and composition
- massive, vesicular or amygdaloidal basalt
- Origin
- the Lesser Caucasus, especially southern Georgia
- Appearance and identification
- grey-black, occasionally pale yellow
Igneous rocks form when molten material solidifies. Cooling underground can produce visible crystals, as in granite; cooling at the surface can produce fine grains, cavities or porphyritic textures. Basalt, granite and many porphyries illustrate different compositions and structures. The commercial term granite can also include other geological rock types: a specification benefits from both the trade name and petrographic description.
02 / History and curiosities
History and curiosities
It is linked to megaliths, monasteries and traditional grape presses.
03 / Applications and design
Applications and design
blocks, masonry, monuments and crafted objects.
Finishes and processes ↗04 / Technical interpretation
What to ask your supplier
Distinguish open vesicles from cavities filled with secondary minerals.
05 / Care and maintenance
Care and maintenance
Remove dust and grit with soft tools, wash with a compatible neutral cleaner, then rinse and dry. Identify composition before using stain or scale removers: carbonate stones are acid-sensitive. Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area. An impregnator can reduce absorption but does not make a material waterproof or stain-proof.
Thoughtful cleaning, protection and maintenance ↗06 / Photograph
Photo gallery
Photographic example: appearance and colour vary with quarry, batch, light and finish.
07 / Sources and further reading
