Duquesa Brechado Marble

Duquesa Brechado Marble is a distinctive natural stone quarried in Lastur, Aldatz (Aldaz), Valle de Larraun, Navarra, in northern Spain. This marble is appreciated for its rich, earthy color tones and dynamic visual character, making it suitable for elegant architectural and interior design applications.

Appearance & Texture

Base Color: Dark brick reddish-brown

Secondary Tones: Lighter reddish hues and subtle rust-orange shades

Veining & Inclusions:

• Prominent white streaks and veins, often in irregular and brecciated patterns
• Occasional presence of white quartz crystals, adding sparkle and translucency
• Sporadic black mineral stains or specks, creating a visual contrast

Pattern Type: Brecciated (fractured and naturally re-cemented)

Texture: Fine to medium grain, compact with crystalline patches

Technical Properties

• Water Absorption : 0.30 %
• Density : 2660 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength : 21.4 MPa
• Compressive Strength : 99.0 MPa
• Mohs Hardness : ~3–4 (typical for marbles)

Chemical Composition (% by weight)

(Typical values for brecciated Spanish marbles; may vary slightly by block)

• CaCO₃ (Calcium Carbonate): ~93–96%
• SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide): ~1–2%
• Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide): ~0.5–1.2% (contributing to the reddish-brown tones)
• MgCO₃ (Magnesium Carbonate): ~0.5–1.0%
• Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide): <0.5%
• Other Minerals: Trace amounts of graphite, quartz, and bituminous substances

Available Cutting Sizes (cm)

Tiles:

• 30 x 30
• 40 x 40
• 60 x 30
• 60 x 40
• 60 x 60

Slabs: 200–300 x 100–190 (standard sizes)

Custom Cut-to-Size: For stair treads, risers, wall panels, vanity tops, and fireplaces

Surface Finishes

• Polished – high gloss to enhance color depth and veining
• Honed – matte, smooth for subdued elegance
• Brushed / Leathered – textured feel with soft sheen
• Antiqued / Tumbled – for rustic or aged applications
• Sandblasted + Brushed – non-slip for exterior or wet-area use

Applications & Usage

• Interior Flooring & Wall Cladding
• Bathroom & Kitchen Countertops
• Fireplace Surrounds
• Tabletops & Furniture Inserts
• Staircases & Thresholds
• Sculptural or Decorative Stone Elements

Not recommended for high-traffic exterior paving due to its marble composition, which can be sensitive to acidic agents and environmental weathering.

Maintenance Recommendations

Sealing: Periodic sealing recommended to protect against stains

Cleaning: Use pH-neutral stone cleaners; avoid vinegar or acidic agents

Polish Maintenance: High-traffic polished areas may need periodic re-polishing to maintain luster

Stain Removal: Clean spills quickly—especially acidic liquids (wine, citrus, coffee)

Summary

Duquesa Brechado Marble offers a classic yet dramatic look, combining warm earthy tones with vivid veining and mineral accents. Its balance of strength, moderate water absorption, and aesthetic appeal makes it a sought-after choice for both modern and traditional spaces requiring a rich and natural stone finish.