Description
Ardesia Nera, also referred to as Ardesia Ligure, is a captivating natural slate known for its distinctive appearance and unique characteristics. Here's a detailed description of this remarkable slate variety:
Color and Appearance:
- Ardesia Nera showcases a primarily black coloration, characterized by deep black tones. Within this rich black background, you may occasionally find jet black inclusions, adding an intriguing contrast and visual interest.
- In some instances, Ardesia Nera exhibits a barely visible silvery mist color, which results from very fine quartz particles present in the slate. This subtle mistiness, when present, adds a touch of complexity to the slate's appearance.
Texture and Finish:
- The natural finish of Ardesia Nera is riven, which means it has a textured surface with a 'wood grain' appearance that runs the length of the slab. This natural texture provides both visual and tactile interest.
- This slate is renowned for its durability and hardness, thanks in part to the significant presence of quartz, a major constituent of slate.
Variability:
Ardesia Nera exhibits a consistent black color when treated, but the presence of occasional inclusions and the subtle silvery mist, where visible, can result in a unique and distinct appearance for each slab.
Recommended Uses:
- Due to its robust nature and the fact that it doesn't easily show scratches, Ardesia Nera is often recommended for use in areas with high traffic, such as hearths.
- It is suitable for various applications, including flooring, wall cladding, roofing, and countertops.
Origin:
Ardesia Nera is quarried in the Liguria region of north-western Italy. The slate quarries in this region are known for producing some of the finest slate in the world.
Age and Formation:
Ardesia Nera is relatively young in geological terms, estimated to be around 90 million years old. Its formation is a result of natural geological processes that have occurred over millions of years.
Finishes:The slate is available in different finishes. The natural, riven finish provides a textured, wood grain-like appearance. The honed finish, on the other hand, is satin smooth with no reflections, creating a sleek and polished surface.
In summary, Ardesia Nera, or Ardesia Ligure, is a captivating natural slate known for its deep black color, occasional inclusions, and subtle silvery mist. Its durability, unique appearance, and versatility make it a sought-after choice for various architectural and design applications.