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2023-05-02

Different Types of Natural Stones and Its Uses in India

Natural stones are a popular building material that has been used for thousands of years. These stones are quarried from the earth and then processed to create various products. Natural stones have been used in the construction of buildings, homes, monuments, and other structures because of their durability, strength, and natural beauty.

In India, natural stones have been used for centuries in various forms. From ancient temples to modern homes, natural stones have been an integral part of the Indian architecture. In this article, we will explore the different types of natural stones that are found and processed in India, their characteristics, and their uses.

Granite

Granite is a type of natural stone that is composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is known for its durability and strength, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops, flooring, and bathroom surfaces. In India, granite is quarried in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

The uses of granite in India are numerous. It is used for flooring, kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, wall cladding, and monuments. Some popular granite variants in India include Black Galaxy, Kashmir White, and Tan Brown.

Marble

Marble is a type of natural stone that is composed of calcium carbonate. It is known for its beauty and elegance, making it a popular choice for flooring, countertops, and wall cladding. In India, marble is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.

The uses of marble in India are varied. It is used for flooring, kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, wall cladding, and monuments. Some popular marble variants in India include Makrana, Italian, and Rosy Pink.

Sandstone

Sandstone is a type of natural stone that is composed of sand-sized grains of mineral and rock fragments. It is known for its texture and color, making it a popular choice for flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. In India, sandstone is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The uses of sandstone in India are diverse. It is used for flooring, wall cladding, monuments, and landscaping. Some popular sandstone variants in India include Rainbow, Dholpur, and Kandla Gray.

Limestone

Limestone is a type of natural stone that is composed of calcium carbonate. It is known for its durability and versatility, making it a popular choice for flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. In India, limestone is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The uses of limestone in India are numerous. It is used for flooring, wall cladding, monuments, and landscaping. Some popular limestone variants in India include Kota, Jaisalmer, and Tandur.

Slate

Slate is a type of natural stone that is composed of fine-grained, sedimentary rock. It is known for its durability and versatility, making it a popular choice for roofing, flooring, and wall cladding. In India, slate is quarried in the northern states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

The uses of slate in India are diverse. It is used for roofing, flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. Some popular slate variants in India include Himachal Black, Kund Multi, and Deoli Green.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a type of natural stone that is composed of metamorphosed sandstone. It is known for its durability and beauty, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops, flooring, and wall cladding. In India, quartzite is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The uses of quartzite in India are numerous. It is used for kitchen countertops, flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. Some popular quartzite variants in India include White Fantasy, Golden Oak, and Rose Quartz.

Travertine

Travertine is a type of natural stone that is composed of calcium carbonate. It is known for its unique pattern and texture, making it a popular choice for flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. In India, travertine is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The uses of travertine in India are varied. It is used for flooring, wall cladding, monuments, and landscaping. Some popular travertine variants in India include Walnut, Ivory, and Gold.

Soapstone

Soapstone is a type of natural stone that is composed of talc and other minerals. It is known for its soft texture and resistance to heat, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops and fireplaces. In India, soapstone is quarried in the northern state of Uttarakhand.

The uses of soapstone in India are limited but practical. It is used for kitchen countertops, fireplaces, and sculptures. Some popular soapstone variants in India include Black Soapstone, White Soapstone, and Green Soapstone.

Basalt

Basalt is a type of natural stone that is composed of volcanic rock. It is known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. In India, basalt is quarried in the northern states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

The uses of basalt in India are diverse. It is used for flooring, wall cladding, monuments, and landscaping. Some popular basalt variants in India include Black Basalt, Grey Basalt, and Green Basalt.

Onyx

Onyx is a type of natural stone that is composed of chalcedony. It is known for its beauty and translucency, making it a popular choice for flooring, wall cladding, and monuments. In India, onyx is quarried in the northern states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

The uses of onyx in India are limited but elegant. It is used for flooring, wall cladding, monuments, and sculptures. Some popular onyx variants in India include Green Onyx, White Onyx, and Yellow Onyx.

Sourced and Processed Natural Stones in India

In India, natural stones are either sourced from the earth or processed from quarried stones. Sourced natural stones are those that are directly quarried from the earth. Processed natural stones are those that are processed from quarried stones to create specific products.

Advantages and Limitations of Using Natural Stones in India

The advantages of using natural stones in India include durability, strength, beauty, and versatility. However, there are also some limitations to using natural stones in India. These include the cost, maintenance, and availability of certain stones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, natural stones are an important part of the Indian architecture. From ancient temples to modern homes, natural stones have been used to create beautiful and durable structures. The different types of natural stones found and processed in India include granite, marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, quartzite, travertine, soapstone, basalt, and onyx. Each of these stones has its own unique characteristics and uses. When using natural stones in India, it is important to consider the advantages and limitations of each stone to ensure that you make the best choice for your specific needs