01 / Geological family
Origin and composition
- Geological family
- Decorative forms and materials
- Origin and composition
- fossil material, commonly silicified
- Origin
- deposits worldwide, with a scientific example in Arizona, USA
- Appearance and identification
- colours and structures varying with deposit and minerals
Pebbles, aggregates and river stones describe shapes or processing rather than one geological composition. Agate and petrified wood are ornamental materials with their own characteristics and should not automatically be treated like paving slabs. This section distinguishes a material from its commercial form to connect decoration, landscape and informed use.
02 / History and curiosities
History and curiosities
Mineralisation can preserve details of the original wood structure.
03 / Applications and design
Applications and design
objects, tops, basins and furniture from documented sources.
Finishes and processes ↗04 / Technical interpretation
What to ask your supplier
Do not assign one age, composition or origin to all commercial objects.
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 ↗07 / Sources and further reading
