Metalicus Breccia

Geology and occurrence. Petrographically, Metalicus Breccia is a carbonate breccia – a sedimentary or metasedimentary rock in which angular clasts of different carbonate and/or silicate rocks are joined by a cementing binder (frequently secondary calcite). The brecciated structure arises through tectonic fracturing processes with subsequent calcite cementation, frequently in connection with hydrothermal mineralisation processes that also introduced the metallic accent minerals (pyrite, haematite). In the international stone trade the grade is carried as “marble” – that is a commercial classification for all readily polishable carbonate rocks; petrographically, breccia is a rock class of its own, between sedimentary and metamorphic rock.

Appearance. The ground tone is a dramatically shifting alternation of light grey, mid grey and deep black clasts of different sizes (from a few millimetres to several centimetres). The pale clasts show fine networks of veins and subtle sedimentary structures; the black clasts appear as deeply anthracite-coloured islands with characteristic whitish calcite veins and occasional metallically lustrous pyrite mineral points. The entire composition is joined by a matrix-like fine network of calcite veins that runs between the clasts like a calligraphic line. The metallic accent shimmers lend the slab a subtle luminous effect depending on the incidence of light – the identifying feature that gives it its name. From a medium distance the surface reads as dramatically mosaic-like with a high-contrast light-dark effect; close up, the geological complexity of the clast structure and the metallic mineral accents become apparent. Every slab is unique – the composition varies strongly between the individual slabs.

Technical properties. Typical values for carbonate breccias: bulk density 2,650 – 2,750 kg/m³, compressive strength 90 – 130 MPa, flexural strength 8 – 14 MPa, water absorption 0.2 – 0.4 %, Mohs hardness around 3 – 4 (calcite). This places the stone in the middle range of the marble and breccia family – structurally loadable for wall applications and moderate floor applications. Acid sensitivity: complete (calcitic) – vinegar, wine, lemon, tomato and cola immediately leave etch marks on polished surfaces. Frost resistance is not officially documented.

ROSSITTIS range. The surface finishes available from stock are listed in the »Finishes« block further down. From the slabs we produce statement wall claddings with book-match mirroring, bathroom fit-outs (vanity units, wall claddings, floor applications with proper waterproofing), dining tables, buffet and furniture tops, bar counters and special accent elements.

Comparison. Within the dramatically brecciated marble family, Metalicus Breccia positions itself as the metallically accented, mosaic-like choice with dark anthracite tonal accents. Related grades are Breccia Imperiale (Italian, pale beige and creamy with grey clasts), Breccia Aurora (Iranian, warmer and ochre-toned), Breccia Capraia (Sardinian), Breccia Pernice (Italian, with pink-orange clasts) and breccia quartzites such as Patagonia (lighter, with a creamy ground tone). Compared with purely black marbles such as Nero Marquina, Metalicus Breccia is more mosaic-like and livelier with clear clast lines; compared with Sahara Noir it lacks the powerful golden yellow veins, but has metallic accents instead.

An honest assessment. Metalicus Breccia is the ideal choice for any application calling for a dramatic, mosaic-like dark marble impression with characteristic metallic accents. The grade works particularly strongly as a statement wall cladding with book-match in luxurious lounges, foyers or master bath concepts, as a dining table or bar counter top, as a bathroom vanity unit in dark, elegant concepts and as a special accent element in dramatic interior concepts. Anyone wanting an acid-resistant stone for heavily used kitchen worktops should switch to black hard rocks such as Nero Assoluto or to porcelain with a breccia look; anyone looking for a powerful golden yellow veining should reach for Sahara Noir or Magma Gold; anyone wanting a lighter breccia effect with a similarly clast-rich look should switch to Patagonia or Breccia Imperiale.