ArquiGreen
NATURAL SURFACE

basalt

BASALT

Basalt  is a volcanic rock (coming from volcanic activity) formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava, rich in magnesium and iron. The volcanic activity can happen on the surface, or can be submarine. When the lava flow happens over the air, formations called “Columnar basalt” are very common. Instead, when the eruption happens underwater, very common is the formation of “Pillow Basalt”.

PRODUCTS

Because of its formation, basalt does not have a natural surface (like Porphyry), and indeed the products are obtained by cutting or splitting the blocks. These blocks are not as huge as those found in granite, so maximum sizes available are limited to 24”. It is suitable to cut-to size fabrication, and the most common shapes/surfaces are:

  • Cobblestones 4”x4”: The traditional basalt cobblestones have all 6 sides split; the more refined ones have the 4 edges sawn with the top face flamed. Other combinations are possible, like edges split and top flamed.
  • Smolleri 2” wide x 8”/15” length: this is a Very unique product, ideal for modern applications.
  • Tiles: several sizes are available, from 6” to 36” in width and length.
  • Surfaces and edges: Tile usually have flamed or brushed surfaces, and the edges are mostly disk cut