Sunk Pinolith Marble

About
Item Details
- Material Type:
- Marble
- Origin:
Austria (Sunk, Trieben, Steiermark) - Primary Color(s):
- Grey
- 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:
- Sunk Magnesite Rock, Sunk Marmor, Sunk Pinolith
- Finished Surface:
- Polished,Bush Hammered,Tumbled,Brushed,Honed,Split,Machine Cut,Natural Surface,Sandblasted,Combed,Leathered,Water Jet,Filled,Chiseled,Pickling
Testing
- Water Absorption:
- 0.10 - 0.22 %
- Density:
- 2940 - 2980 kg/m3
- Compressive Strength:
- 91.0 MPa
- Stone texture:
- a distinctive decorative stone characterized by a dark grey to black background with scattered white to light-grey oval or elongated crystals that resemble pine nuts, creating a striking natural pattern that gives the stone its name “Pinolith.” The overall appearance is bold and decorative, with high contrast between the dark matrix and the lighter magnesite inclusions, sometimes showing subtle grey or brownish tones depending on the quarry section. In terms of texture and structure, it is a metamorphic magnesite-based rock composed mainly of magnesite, dolomite, and graphite, forming a compact, crystalline structure with moderate grain size and a dense, massive formation. This stone still being quarried but only in limited quantities. Sunk Pinolith originates from the Sunk Valley near Trieben in Styria, Austria, where magnesite deposits containing this stone occur. Large-scale magnesite mining in the area operated for many decades but stopped in 1991, and later selective extraction of pinolith resumed around 2013 under new management, mainly for decorative stone and specialty uses rather than continuous large-volume quarry production.
Description
Sunk Pinolith Marble is an eye-catching decorative stone sourced from the Sunk Valley near Trieben in Styria, Austria. Renowned for its unique appearance, this metamorphic rock features a dark grey to black matrix accented with white to light-grey, pine nut-like magnesite inclusions. This bold contrast makes it a sought-after material for decorative and specialty uses. Despite its striking appearance, it is produced in limited quantities due to the selective extraction process adopted since 2013.
Physical and Mechanical Properties:
- Water Absorption: 0.10 - 0.22%
- Density: 2940 - 2980 kg/m³
- Flexural Strength: Information may vary depending on specific quarry tests.
- Compressive Strength: 91.0 MPa
- Hardness: Exhibits moderate hardness typical of marble, allowing for both workability and durability.
- Porosity: Generally low, contributing to its dense structure.
- Slip Resistance: May require surface treatment to enhance slip resistance, particularly when polished.
Chemical and Mineral Composition:
- Magnesite: The primary component, offering distinctive light inclusions.
- Dolomite: Contributes to the overall strength and structure.
- Graphite: Provides the dark background color.
- Other Trace Minerals: May include silica and iron oxides affecting slight color variations.
Usage:
- Decorative Surfaces: Ideal for interior applications such as wall cladding, fireplace surrounds, countertops, and decorative accents.
- Specialty Installations: Used in sculptural pieces or bespoke architectural elements due to its distinctive appearance.
- Flooring: Suitable for low-traffic areas where visual impact is desired over functional durability.
Maintenance:
- Regular cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner to prevent etching and maintain shine.
- Periodic resealing to preserve the surface finish and prevent staining, depending on the finish used.
- Ensure protective mats or pads are used under heavy furniture to prevent scratching.
Common Surface Finish Options:
- Polished: Enhances the visual contrast and highlights the natural pattern.
- Honed: Offers a matte finish for a more subdued appearance.
- Leathered: Provides a textured surface, increasing slip resistance and adding a tactile quality.
- Brushed: Creates a soft, aged appearance with a slight texture.
Sunk Pinolith Marble's unique aesthetic and localized production make it a distinctive choice for high-end, bespoke projects where individuality and natural beauty are paramount. Its physical properties ensure it has both decorative appeal and the necessary durability for various interior applications.















