Opera Quartzite is an elegant rusty brown-red and black veined exotic stone quarried in Brazil.
Visual Characteristics:
- Dominated by warm earth tones.
- Features deep chocolates.
- Contains sweeping, diagonal bands of copper, bronze, rust, and muted gold.
- Celebrated for dramatic, wood-grain-like or linear veining.
- Primary color: Brown.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
- Water Absorption:Low water absorption rate, typically < 0.45%.
- Density:Approximately 2.68 - 2.73 g/cm³.
- Flexural Strength:Average: 18 - 22 MPa.
- Compressive Strength:Approximately 130 - 150 MPa.
- Hardness:Mohs scale rating of around 6-7, indicating good resistance to scratching.
- Porosity:Generally low porosity due to its dense structure.
- Slip Resistance:Varies depending on finish; honed surfaces offer moderate slip resistance, while polished surfaces are less slip-resistant when wet.
Chemical and Mineral Composition (approximate % by weight)
- Iron Oxides (e.g., Hematite, Goethite):1-5%, contributing to the warm and rust tones.
- Other Minerals (trace amounts):Include rutile, zircon, and various others depending on the specific deposit.
Usage and Applications
- Countertops: Popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops due to aesthetic appeal and durability.
- Flooring: Suitable for high-traffic areas due to scratch resistance.
- Wall Cladding: Adds dramatic effect to indoor and outdoor walls.
- Staircases: Offers a luxurious appearance with good load-bearing strength.
- Backsplashes and Accents: Ideal for smaller, decorative applications alongside other materials.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning with mild soap and water; avoiding acidic or abrasive cleaners.
- Sealing: Periodic sealing recommended to enhance stain resistance.
- Avoid scratching: Use cutting boards and trivets to protect surfaces.
Cutting Sizes (cm)
Typical Slab Sizes:
- 2 cm and 3 cm thickness are standard.
- Slab dimensions vary but are generally around 280 cm x 160 cm.
Available Common Surface Finish Options
- Polished: Offers a glossy, reflective surface that enhances colors and veining.
- Honed: Provides a matte, smooth finish with less shine.
- Brushed: Adds texture, bringing out the natural grain of the stone.
- Leathered: Creates a soft sheen with a textured feel, enhancing color depth.
- Flamed: Rough texture achieved via high-temperature treatment, usually applied to outdoor applications for slip resistance.
Opera Quartzite is a sophisticated choice for various interior and exterior applications due to its unique beauty, durability, and versatility. It combines practicality with aesthetic appeal, suitable for both modern and traditional designs.