Melly Grey Limestone

About
Item Details
- Material Type:
- Limestone
- Origin:
Egypt (near Rafah border, North Sinai) - Recommended Usage:
- kitchen and bathroom countertops, wash basins, building stone, ornamental stone, stairs, interior, exterior wall and floor applications, mosaic, waterjet pattern, wall panels, table tops, balustrades, columns, wall and pool copings, pool pavers, sculptures, fireplaces, window sills
- Additional Names:
- Melly Gray Limestone, Meli Gray Limestone, Milly Grey Limestone, Milli Grey Limestone, Contila Marble, London Grey Marble, Meli Grey Limestone, Nile Grey Limestone, Grey Minya Limestone, Melly Grey Limestone
- Finished Surface:
- Polished,Bush Hammered,Tumbled,Brushed,Honed,Split,Machine Cut,Natural Surface,Sandblasted,Combed,Leathered,Water Jet,Filled,Chiseled,Pickling
Testing
- Water Absorption:
- 0.05 - 0.26%
- Density:
- 2660 kg/m³
- Flexural Strength:
- 2,300 psi (~15.8 MPa)
- Compressive Strength:
- 20,200 psi (~139 MPa)
Description
Melly Grey (also known as Nile Grey or Grey Minya) is a natural limestone from Egypt, despite often being marketed commercially as “marble.” It is a sedimentary stone composed mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
Melly Grey is a natural limestone quarried near the Rafah border in North Sinai, Egypt. It is a sedimentary stone composed predominantly of calcium carbonate, widely appreciated for its neutral grey tones and architectural versatility.
Color & Appearance
Melly Grey Limestone features cool mid-grey to dark grey tones, often enriched with subtle silver and beige undertones. The surface may display natural fossil traces, soft veining, and gentle tonal variations, creating a refined yet organic aesthetic suitable for modern and contemporary designs.
Texture & Structure
This limestone has a fine- to medium-grained structure with a relatively uniform matrix. Due to its sedimentary origin, it may include fossil inclusions and small natural pores, adding natural character while maintaining overall consistency.
Pattern
Generally uniform background tone Subtle fossil markings and soft veining Light natural variations between pieces This results in a calm, consistent pattern with understated movement.
Technical Properties
- Compressive Strength: ~139 MPa (~20,200 psi)
- Flexural Strength: ~15.8 MPa (~2,300 psi)
- Abrasion Resistance: ~33.9 Ha
- Density: ~2660 kg/m³
- Water Absorption: ~0.05% – 0.26%
These values indicate moderate strength, relatively low absorption for limestone, and good suitability for architectural applications.
Hardness & Durability
Melly Grey Limestone has medium hardness, typical of limestone, offering good durability for both interior and exterior use when properly treated. It is less hard than granite but provides adequate resistance for residential and commercial applications.
Chemical & Mineral Composition (% by weight)
- Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃ / Calcite): ~90–98%
- Silica / Quartz: ~1–5%
- Iron Oxides & Clay Minerals: trace amounts
This composition contributes to its natural appearance, workability, and structural performance.
Applications
Suitable for a wide range of applications:
- Interior flooring and wall cladding
- Exterior façades and landscaping
- Paving, terraces, and walkways
- Pool surrounds and garden features
- Bathrooms, fireplaces, and decorative elements
Surface Finish Options
Honed, Brushed, Sandblasted, Bush-hammered, Tumbled, Split face, Polished (less common)
Maintenance
- Clean with mild detergent and water
- Sealing recommended to reduce porosity and staining
- Avoid acidic cleaners due to calcite content
- Regular maintenance ensures long-lasting performance
General Evaluation
Melly Grey Limestone is a versatile and cost-effective natural stone, valued for its neutral grey palette, subtle fossil character, and balanced performance. It is an excellent choice for modern architectural projects requiring a refined yet natural appearance.











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