White Snow Onyx

White Snow Onyx is a stunning natural stone known for its translucent quality and elegant appearance, characterized by a predominantly white background interspersed with irregular brownish or yellow veining. Its visible crystalline structures add an exceptional beauty, especially when backlit, revealing intricate patterns. This type of onyx is quarried in Iran and is highly sought after for its aesthetic appeal.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

• Water Absorption: Typically low, around 0.20% to 0.40%, due to its dense crystalline structure.
• Density: Approximately 2.7 g/cm³, indicating a relatively high density which contributes to its durability.
• Flexural Strength: Generally ranges between 8 to 10 MPa, showing moderate resistance to bending.
• Compressive Strength: Usually falls between 120 and 140 MPa, providing substantial resistance to crushing forces.
• Hardness: Ranges from 4 to 5 on the Mohs scale, implying moderate scratch resistance.
• Porosity: Relatively low, around 1% to 3%, which helps in resisting water and stain penetration.
• Slip Resistance: Typically low, especially when polished; advisable to use a matte finish in wet areas to improve safety.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): Approximately 90% to 95%, as onyx is primarily composed of calcite.
• Silica (SiO2): Generally less than 5%, contributing to the stone's brittle nature.
• Iron Oxides: Less than 1%, responsible for the yellow and brown veining.
• Magnesium (Mg): Trace amounts, less than 1%.

Usage

• Interior Applications: Ideal for decorative surfaces such as countertops, backsplashes, wall cladding, and flooring in low-traffic areas.
• Backlit Installations: Its translucency makes it perfect for light installations, allowing the intricate veining and crystalline patterns to be showcased.
• Furniture and Art Pieces: Used in crafting tabletops, vases, and other decorative items.

Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Use a damp cloth with a neutral pH cleaner. Avoid acidic or harsh chemical cleaners.
• Sealing: Requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance and prevent staining.
• Polishing: Over time, periodic polishing may be necessary to restore its shine.

Cutting Sizes and Common Surface Finishes

• Cutting Sizes: Typically available in slabs ranging from 2 cm to 3 cm in thickness. Standard slab sizes are around 180 cm x 300 cm, although custom sizes might be available.
• Surface Finish Options:
• Polished: Provides a high-gloss finish that enhances its translucency.
• Honed: Offers a matte finish, reducing reflectivity and slip risk.
• Leathered: Gives a textured surface, enhancing slip resistance and hiding fingerprints or smudges.

White Snow Onyx’s unique characteristics and elegant aesthetics make it a luxurious choice for a variety of interior design applications. However, due to its moderate hardness and risk of scratching or etching, it is best used in areas that do not experience heavy wear and tear. Proper installation, sealing, and maintenance are essential to preserve its beauty over time.