Caressi Blue Marble is an elegant and visually striking natural stone quarried in Susurluk, Balikesir province, Turkey. Known for its dark bluish-gray base adorned with white streaks and soft bluish-gray shading, this marble is ideal for a variety of high-end architectural and design applications.

Texture & Pattern

Texture: Caressi Blue Marble has a fine to medium grain texture, with a smooth surface that is pleasant to the touch and provides a luxurious feel.

Pattern: The stone features a dark bluish-gray background interspersed with delicate white streaks and soft bluish-gray tonal variations, creating a flowing and dynamic pattern that adds depth and movement to its appearance. The subtle contrast between the light and dark shades makes each piece of marble unique.

Chemical and Mineral Composition

Main Minerals:

Calcite: The primary mineral in marble, contributing to its smooth texture and fine grain.

Dolomite: Present in smaller quantities, enhancing the marble's durability and providing a slight variation in color.

Quartz: Minor presence, contributing to the strength and compactness of the marble.

Chemical Composition:

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): The predominant component, forming the crystalline structure of the marble.

Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO3): Present due to the presence of dolomite, adding subtle variations in appearance.

Iron Oxides (Fe2O3): Traces may influence the stone's color and enhance the grayish tones.

Test Results

Hardness: Typically rated at 3-4 on the Mohs scale, Caressi Blue Marble is relatively soft compared to other stones, making it easier to carve and shape. However, care should be taken to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.

Compressive Strength: The stone offers good compressive strength, making it durable for most indoor applications, but it requires care in high-impact zones.

Water Absorption: Moderate absorption rate. Sealing is recommended for areas exposed to moisture, especially for kitchen or bathroom applications.

Porosity: Low to moderate porosity; however, regular sealing helps prevent staining and water damage.

Flexural Strength: Strong enough for vertical surfaces and well-suited for cladding or other architectural elements.

Usage

Applications:Flooring: Suitable for both residential and commercial flooring, especially in areas where a luxurious, sophisticated appearance is desired.

Wall Cladding: Ideal for creating elegant wall treatments, such as feature walls or decorative panels.

Countertops: Perfect for bathroom vanities, kitchen countertops, and island tops, as its dynamic color pattern adds a luxurious touch to any space.

Tiles: Can be used in tiles for flooring, wall coverings, and even custom decorative items.

Staircases: Can be applied to stairs, risers, and treads for an upscale, cohesive look throughout a space.

Monuments and Memorials: Its unique, timeless appearance makes it a good option for gravestones or commemorative sculptures.

Maintenance

Cleaning: To maintain its natural beauty, use a soft cloth with a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface or alter the color.

Sealing: Periodic sealing is recommended to protect against stains, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. A natural stone sealant can help reduce water absorption.

Scratching: Due to its moderate hardness, avoid using sharp objects directly on the surface. Use cutting boards and protective pads where necessary.

Polishing: Caressi Blue Marble can be polished to a high gloss, enhancing its natural veining and streaking patterns. However, this should be done carefully to avoid altering the natural texture.

Repairs: Small chips or scratches can be repaired by re-polishing the affected area, but larger damages might require professional restoration.

Cutting and Surface Finish Options

Cutting: Caressi Blue Marble can be easily cut with diamond-tipped saws and water jet technology. Its softer nature allows for precise cuts without excessive wear on the tools.

Surface Finish Options:

Polished: A highly reflective surface finish that brings out the depth of the white streaks and bluish-gray tones, making it ideal for countertops, floors, and high-traffic areas.

Honed: Provides a smooth, matte finish that emphasizes the marble’s color variations without the high shine. Suitable for wall cladding and other decorative uses.

Leathered: A textured finish that gives the marble a slightly rustic, soft-touch feel while maintaining its luxurious appeal. Great for modern and naturalistic interior designs.

Brushed: A slightly textured finish that is low-maintenance and ideal for flooring and exterior applications.

Advantages

Elegance: The striking blue-gray and white streaks create a timeless and elegant look that suits a wide range of interior design themes, from modern to classic.

Versatility: Caressi Blue Marble’s versatility makes it suitable for both residential and commercial projects, including countertops, floors, and wall cladding.

Durability: While softer than some other stones, it remains highly durable with the proper care and maintenance, making it a valuable addition to any project.

Aesthetic Appeal: The unique pattern and color variations of this marble offer aesthetic flexibility, allowing designers to create luxurious, standout spaces.

In summary, Caressi Blue Marble is an elegant and versatile material with a luxurious dark bluish-gray base and stunning white and bluish streaks. Its beauty, coupled with its moderate durability, makes it a premium choice for both decorative and functional applications in high-end design projects.