Branco el Rei Marble

Branco El Rei Marble is quarried in Portugal, primarily in the Estremoz Anticline zone within the regions of Vila Viçosa, Lagoa, Estremoz, and Évora, Alentejo. This region is world-renowned for its high-quality ornamental marble production.

Appearance, Texture & Pattern

Base Color: Predominantly white, sometimes with a soft ivory or warm undertone.

Veining: Distinct creamy golden to light brownish veins or swirls, appearing in varied densities.

Texture: Fine- to medium-grained, compact crystalline marble with a uniform base and subtle movement.

Pattern: Depending on the block, the veining can be linear, cloudy, or slightly dynamic, making it both versatile and elegant for modern and classical interiors.

Technical Properties

• Water Absorption: 0.09% by weight
• Density: 2,710 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 17.5 – 19.0 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 85.5 – 87.5 MPa
• Abrasion Resistance: Moderate
• Hardness (Mohs scale): ~3 – 4
• Porosity: Low to moderate

These values place Branco El Rei within the range of high-quality decorative marbles, suitable for most interior applications.

Chemical & Mineral Composition

(% by weight – typical for Estremoz marbles)

• CaCO₃ (Calcite): 95–98%
• MgCO₃: <1.5%
• SiO₂ (Silica): <0.5–1%
• Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide): 0.1–0.4%
• Al₂O₃ (Alumina): 0.1–0.3%
• Others (trace minerals): Minor content

Usage & Applications

Branco El Rei is ideal for a wide range of decorative and architectural uses:

• Interior flooring and wall cladding
• Bathroom countertops, vanities, and shower walls
• Kitchen countertops (with proper sealing)
• Staircases and balustrades
• Fireplace surrounds
• Tabletops and furniture accents
• Interior columns and decorative panels

* Due to its calcitic structure, it is less suitable for outdoor applications in freeze-thaw environments unless treated and protected.

Available Cutting Sizes (cm)

Standard Tiles:

• 30 × 30 × 2 cm
• 60 × 30 × 2 cm
• 60 × 60 × 2 cm

Slabs:

• 2 cm and 3 cm thickness (standard)
• Custom sizes upon request, depending on block availability.

Surface Finishes

Branco El Rei marble supports a wide variety of finishes, enhancing its natural beauty:

• Polished – For high-gloss, reflective surfaces. Most popular for countertops and floors.
• Honed – Smooth and matte; ideal for softer visual effects.
• Brushed / Antiqued – Lightly textured for a rustic or aged look.
• Sandblasted – Subtle matte texture, often used in vertical cladding.
• Tumbled – Aged, soft-edged effect, commonly used in small-format tiles or mosaics.

Maintenance Guidelines

Sealing: Recommended before installation and periodically afterward to prevent staining.

Cleaning: Use pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaners.

Avoid acidic substances (vinegar, lemon juice, etc.).

Restoration: Can be re-polished or re-honed to refresh appearance over time.

Heat Resistance: Good, but thermal shock should be avoided (e.g., placing hot pans directly on countertops).