Silver Matrix Quartzite is an exotic natural stone featuring a dark grey to deep black background with dynamic fragmented silver-grey mineral movement. Elongated black inclusions and irregular darker areas create a dramatic, layered appearance, while the contrasting silver-grey mineral zones give the surface a metallic, matrix-like character. Depending on the quarry and geological material, the commercial name Silver Matrix may also be associated with phyllite or sandstone classifications, so the exact geological classification can vary by source.
Texture & Structure
The stone has a dense, compact crystalline to foliated texture with irregular fragmented mineral patterns, elongated dark inclusions, and flowing silver-grey movements. The surface can display pronounced natural variation from slab to slab. Brazilian Silver Matrix is commonly marketed as a dark grey/black quartzite with metallic silver movement.
Technical Characteristics
Representative values for comparable dense quartzitic/phyllitic natural stone; stone-specific laboratory results should be confirmed with the supplier.
- Water Absorption: approximately 0.20–0.80% by weight
- Density: approximately 2,690–2,740 kg/m³
- Flexural Strength: approximately 15–18 MPa
- Compressive Strength: approximately 180–200 MPa
- Hardness: approximately 6–7 on the Mohs scale
- Abrasion Resistance: Generally good to excellent, depending on the quartz content and degree of foliation
Chemical & Mineralogical Composition
Silver Matrix Quartzite is generally quartz-rich, with feldspar, mica and other silicate minerals contributing to the grey, black and silver coloration. Exact composition varies according to quarry and geological classification.
- Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂): approximately 65–85% by weight
- Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃): approximately 5–15%
- Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃/FeO): approximately 1–7%
- Potassium Oxide (K₂O): approximately 1–5%
- Sodium Oxide (Na₂O): approximately 0.5–4%
- Calcium Oxide (CaO): approximately 0.2–3%
- Magnesium Oxide (MgO): approximately 0.5–4%
Mineralogical Composition:
Predominantly quartz, with variable amounts of feldspar, mica (particularly biotite or muscovite), chlorite and accessory iron-bearing minerals. If the material is petrographically classified as phyllite rather than quartzite, the proportion and type of mica/chlorite and the degree of foliation can be substantially different.
Usage
Suitable for countertops, kitchen islands, vanity tops, backsplashes, interior wall cladding, feature walls, flooring, fireplaces, stairs, tables, furniture, hotel and commercial interiors, and selected exterior applications. Brazilian Silver Matrix is also marketed for high-end interior and architectural applications.
Maintenance
Clean regularly with a soft cloth or mop and a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid strong acids, abrasive powders, harsh alkaline chemicals and aggressive cleaning products. Seal the stone where appropriate, particularly for kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces and other areas exposed to oils or staining liquids. Wipe spills promptly. For foliated or phyllitic material, avoid prolonged water exposure and confirm suitability before using it in demanding exterior or wet applications.
Database Note: The name Silver Matrix is not geologically uniform across all suppliers. Indian sources classify Silver Matrix as slate or quartzite, while Brazilian suppliers market it as quartzite or granite. Therefore, StoneContact listings should use the actual material classification supported by the supplier’s quarry information and technical documentation rather than relying on the commercial name alone.
India
Brazil
