Azul Macauba is a quartzite that captures the very essence of the sky and sea. To surround yourself with it is like embracing the deep ocean. This quartzite comes from the terrains of Brazil, like many other exquisite stones. Geologists, interior designers, and homeowners alike are fascinated by this gem of a stone. In this blog we are going to uncover the deep origins and extraordinary qualities of this dark blue quartzite.
Azul Macauba Origins
Like many other fascinating stones, Azul Macauba comes from the landscapes of Espírito Santo and Bahia in Brazil.
Formation Process
Quartzite originally comes from sandstone, and this sandstone undergoes metamorphosis through extreme heat and pressure. Because of this, the grains of sand crystallize again, blending with silica to form the hard and compact stone Azul Macauba.
Minerals in Azul Macauba
The captivating blue hue of Azul Macauba is a result of specific minerals present during its formation. Minerals like dumortierite and other blue minerals give this stone its color. Through this mineral composition, nature ensures that no two pieces are identical.
Characteristics of Azul Macauba
Azul Macauba isn’t merely about aesthetic appeal. It boasts a range of features that make it a good choice for various applications:
Hardness
On the Mohs scale, which is used to gauge the hardness of minerals, quartzite is very hard. In fact, it comes in just below diamonds. Therefore, Azul Macauba can resist most scratches and abrasions that softer stones cannot.
Non-Porosity
Because it is a quartzite, Azul Macauba has a low porosity. This means that it won’t easily absorb liquids, reducing the risk of staining. As a result, this stone is a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. This doesn’t mean, however, that quartzite doesn’t need a boost of protection. Occasionally sealing the stone will ensure long-lasting beauty and funtionality.
Pattern Variation
No two slabs of Azul Macauba are the same; each is a unique masterpiece. Depending on where in a quarry the stone was extracted, patterns can vary from swirling waves to linear streaks. Each adds another part of nature’s character to the space it adorns.
Thermal Stability
Quartzites also exhibit good thermal stability. This means that Azul Macauba doesn’t really get damaged by high temperatures, a trait particularly valuable for kitchen counters.
Granular Texture
When you look closely at this quartzite, you can notice the granular texture. This granularity is directly related to the recrystallization process during the stone’s formation.
Resistance to Acids and Alkalis
Unlike many natural stones, Azul Macauba is resistant to acidic and alkaline substances. This enhances its suitability for kitchens and bathrooms.
Luminescence Capabilities
Depending on the slab’s mineral makeup, Azul Macauba could be backlit, meaning that a countertop or backsplash is illuminated from behind or beneath it. This could be a great source of ambient lighting and visual appeal.
Flexural Strength
Azul Macauba boasts impressive flexural strength, meaning it can withstand bending forces better than many other stones. This trait is beneficial for applications like cantilevered countertops or extended overhangs.
Conclusion
Azul Macauba is a chronicle of Earth’s history and a representation of geological processes spanning many years. Its Brazilian roots and deep blue hues are stories of its past formation. It doesn’t, however, only look extraordinary; it also performs exceptionally well in a kitchen or bathroom. For those seeking a fragment of the sky or the sea in their kitchen, this stone is an excellent choice.
