Pietra Basaltina, also known simply as Basaltina, is a unique and exquisite natural stone quarried in the regions of Bagnoregio, Bolsena, and Provincia di Viterbo, in Northern Lazio, Italy. It is a type of volcanic rock, specifically basalt, that was formed from solidified lava flows millions of years ago.

Basaltina is characterized by its dark gray to black color, which is interspersed with subtle variations and a fine-grained texture. The stone's appearance can range from solid and uniform to displaying natural patterns and occasional veining, giving it a distinct and sophisticated charm.

The natural properties of Basaltina make it a versatile material with various applications in architecture and design. It is highly regarded for its durability, hardness, and resistance to wear, making it suitable for both interior and exterior use. In construction, it is commonly employed for flooring, wall cladding, and outdoor paving due to its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and exposure to the elements.

In interior design, Pietra Basaltina is often utilized to create sleek and modern spaces, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall aesthetic. Its dark and smooth surface allows for an understated yet luxurious look that complements contemporary designs.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Basaltina is also prized for its thermal and acoustic insulation properties, making it a functional choice for areas where temperature and sound control are important considerations.

As with any natural stone, the appearance of Basaltina can vary from one quarry to another and even within the same quarry, depending on the specific geological conditions. This natural variation contributes to its uniqueness and is part of the allure of using natural stone materials in architectural and design projects.

Due to its origins in the picturesque region of Northern Lazio, Italy, and its exceptional qualities, Pietra Basaltina is often considered a premium material and is sought after by architects, designers, and homeowners for a wide range of projects that demand both beauty and functionality.

Petrographic definition: tephra
Massa Unit Volume: 2230 kg/m3
Water Absorption: 3.05 %
Breaking Load Compression Simple: 82.5 MPa
Compression breaking load after freezing: 87.1 MPa
Tensile indirectly by bending 13.8 MPa
Its coefficient of Abrasion (referred to Granite St. Fedelino): 0.54
Impact resistance: minimum fall height: 25 cm
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion: 5.0 x 10-5 0C-1
Knoop microhardness: 3473 MPa
Index unevenness of hardness: 3.68
Source: Università di Pisa - Politecnico di Torino