Dolomite is a sedimentary rock that, thanks to its simple beauty and exceptional physical properties, attracts the attention not only of geologists, but also of architects and designers.
Origin and history of dolomite
The dolomite owes its name to the French geologist Déodat de Dolomieu, who first described it in the Dolomites in Italy at the end of the 18th century.
This rock consists mainly of dolomite, a mineral made of calcium carbonate and magnesium. The presence of magnesium distinguishes dolomite from any other limestone, as the latter consists only of calcium carbonate.
Although the exact origin of dolomite has still not been fully discovered, we do know that it is one of the 10% of the world’s sedimentary rocks and that it was produced in much larger quantities in the past than it is today. In addition to Italy, there are important dolomite deposits in Brazil, Australia, Mexico, Switzerland, Germany, the USA and Spain.
Geological formation and characteristics of dolomite
Dolomite was formed by the so-called dolomitization, a process during which calcium carbonate in limestones has been replaced by magnesium carbonate under the influence of magnesium-enriched liquids.
This process can take place immediately after the limestone sediments have been deposited, or only after millions of years, thus contributing to structural diversity and colour versatility.
Dolomite is highly valued thanks to its hardness and resistance, which are more distintive than in other sedimentary rocks. It is not as porous as limestone and therefore more weather-resistant and less susceptible to erosion and acid corrosion. These properties make it an ideal material for versatile structural and decorative applications, both indoors and outdoors.
Australian Calacatta Gold
Australian Cream
Calacatta Matarazzo
Application in settings
Due to its aesthetic and physical properties, dolomite is an ideal and versatile decorative material:
- cladding and floorcovering: thanks to its durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, dolomite is often used for indoor and outdoor wall cladding or flooring;
- kitchen top and vanity top: thanks to its stain and heat resistance, this material is suitable as a kitchen top or vanity top in bathrooms;
- architectural elements: columns, windowsills, fireplaces, and other architectural elements made of dolomite provide every setting with a natural and long-lasting elegance;
- urban design: thanks to its resistance, dolomite is also suitable for public spaces, e.g. as square pavement, as sidewalk curb stones, or other urban design elements.
In architecture, this material is not only practical, but also of remarkable natural beauty and diversity. Dolomite is a very good choice for interior design projects that require a durable material without sacrificing beauty.
Visit our material catalogue and discover our entire selection of dolomites, including Calacatta Matarazzo, Australian Cream, Super White and many others.