Ivory Onyx

Ivory Onyx is a striking type of natural stone that is known for its ivory-white or creamy background, accentuated with subtle beige striations or golden accents. This type of onyx is quarried primarily in Turkey and is renowned for its elegant and sophisticated appearance, often used in high-end architectural and design applications. Below is a detailed description of its properties, compositions, usage, maintenance, cutting sizes, and finishes.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

• Water Absorption:Typically low; around 0.25% to 0.45%. The exact value depends on the specific quarry and cut quality.

• Density:Approximately 2.68 to 2.71 g/cm³.

• Flexural Strength:Ranges from 5 to 8 MPa.

• Compressive Strength:Typically between 80 to 110 MPa.

• Hardness:On the Mohs scale, Ivory Onyx typically ranges from 3 to 4, indicating it is relatively soft compared to other stones like granite or quartzite.

• Porosity:Moderately porous, contributing to its lower water absorption rate.

• Slip Resistance:Slip resistance varies depending on the finish. A polished finish may be more slippery, while honed or textured surfaces offer better grip.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions (% by weight)

• Calcite (CaCO₃): 90% to 95%

• Other minerals (e.g., quartz, feldspar): 5% to 10%

  Note: The exact chemical composition can vary depending on the specific geology of the quarry site.

Usage

Interior Applications:

• Ideal for wall cladding, flooring, and decorative features.
• Popular in lobby areas, bathrooms, and spa environments for its luxurious appeal.

Lighting Features:

• Due to its translucency, Ivory Onyx is often used in backlit applications to enhance its natural veining and luminous quality.

Furniture and Decorative Objects:

• Employed in manufacturing countertops, tabletops, vases, and other luxury decorative items.

Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Use pH-neutral, non-acidic cleaning agents to prevent damage to the stone's surface.
• Sealing: Periodic sealing with a high-quality stone sealant is recommended to maintain its appearance and protect it from staining.
• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Harsh chemicals and abrasive pads should be avoided to prevent surface scratches.

Cutting Sizes (cm)

• Available in a variety of bespoke sizes, but commonly found in slabs ranging from 1.5 to 2 cm in thickness.
• Standard tile sizes include 30x30 cm, 30x60 cm, and 60x60 cm.

Available Common Surface Finish Options

• Polished:Offers a high-gloss finish that accentuates the stone's natural beauty and color variations, but more prone to showing scratches and etch marks.

• Honed:A matte, smooth finish that is less reflective and provides better slip resistance.

• Leathered:Textured finish giving it a subtle tactile quality and increased slip resistance, often used for furniture tops and flooring.

• Brushed:Features a slightly textured finish, providing a rustic and organic appearance.

Utilizing Ivory Onyx in design projects can elevate the elegance and sophistication of spaces, offering a timeless and luxurious aesthetic. Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve its beauty over time due to its relatively softer nature and porosity.