Cuarcita Azul Palomino
1. Product Overview Azul Palomino Quartzite is one of the most artistic and structurally complex stones available in the global market. Sourced from exclusive quarries in Brazil, this exotic quartzite is celebrated for its resemblance to ancient petrified wood, but with a vibrant twist of azure and gold tones.
Unlike delicate marbles, Azul Palomino offers the extreme durability of quartzite (harder than granite). It is a dense, opaque material that provides both the “wow factor” of a decorative stone and the functional resilience required for heavy-duty kitchen countertops and bar tops.
2. Stone Characteristics
- Tipo de piedra: Exotic Natural Quartzite
- Origen: Brasil
- Texture: Crystalline, Wood-like grain
- Translucidez: None (Opaque)
- Hardness: Extremely High (Scratch-resistant)
3. Technical Specifications (Data based on standard ASTM/EN testing)
| Propiedad | Valor | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Densidad | 2.65 – 2.70 | g/cm³ |
| Absorción de agua | 0.10 – 0.20 | % |
| Resistencia a la compresión | 180 – 200 | MPa |
| Flexural Strength | 20 – 25 | MPa |
| Porosidad | Very Low | – |
| Dureza (Mohs) | 7 | Scale |
| Resistencia a los ácidos | Alta | – |
4. Color & Pattern Description Azul Palomino is a visual masterpiece defined by:
- Complex Palette: A mix of navy and sky blues, sharply contrasted by golden-brown, rust, and creamy beige tones.
- Linear Movement: The veins often run horizontally or diagonally, mimicking the rings of timber or the flow of agate.
- Solid Depth: The stone is solid and opaque, offering a rich, saturated color that does not rely on backlighting.
- Uniqueness: Every slab is distinct; some lean more towards blue, while others feature more golden/wood tones.
5. Key Advantages
- Extreme Durability: Rated 7 on the Mohs scale, it is highly resistant to scratching, etching, and heat.
- Unique Wood Aesthetic: Offers the look of petrified wood with the strength of stone.
- Artistic Value: Acts as a piece of natural art; ideal for “Statement Walls.”
- Versatility: Suitable for both interior luxury designs and exterior cladding due to its weather resistance.
- Low Maintenance: Its low porosity means it resists staining better than marble and granite.
6. Recommended Applications Residencial
- Luxury Kitchen Islands (Waterfall style recommended)
- Full-height Backsplashes
- Encimeras de tocador para baños
- Living Room Feature Walls
- Rodeos de chimenea
Comercial
- Mostradores de recepción de hotel
- Upscale Bar Tops
- Executive Office Wall Cladding
- Lobby Flooring
7. Available Finishes
- Pulido: The standard choice. It seals the pores and maximizes the vibrancy of the blue and gold colors.
- Leathered (Satin): Enhances the “wood-like” texture of the stone, providing a tactile experience that feels natural and soft.
- Afilado: A matte finish for a more subtle, modern look.
8. Standard Sizes & Customization
- Slabs: Jumbo slabs (approx. 3000 x 1800 mm) are standard to showcase the full pattern.
- Grosor: 20 mm (3/4″) and 30 mm (1 1/4″).
- Cut-to-size: We offer precision cutting for complex geometric designs and edge profiles.
9. Processing & Fabrication Options
- Book-Matching: Highly recommended. Mirroring two slabs creates a kaleidoscope or “Rorschach” effect that is stunning on large walls.
- Mitered Edges: Create the appearance of a thicker block for islands.
- CNC Carving: Suitable for 3D textured panels due to its hardness.
10. Installation Notes
- Cutting: Due to its extreme hardness, diamond blades and water-cooled CNC machines are required.
- Adhesive: Use clear or color-matched epoxy specifically for quartzite.
- Weight: This is a dense stone; ensure cabinetry and substrates are reinforced to support the weight.
- Sellado: Although durable, sealing is recommended upon installation as a best practice.
11. Maintenance Guide
- Clean with mild soap and warm water.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads (though the stone is hard, the polish can be dulled over time).
- No special pH-neutral cleaners are strictly required, but they are recommended to preserve the sealant.
- Heat resistant: You can place hot pots directly on it, though trivets are always safer.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Azul Palomino Quartzite a “soft” quartzite? No. It is a “hard” quartzite (true quartzite). Unlike some stones labeled as “soft quartzite” (which are actually dolomitic marbles), Azul Palomino is geologically a metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz. It will not etch from lemon or vinegar.
Q2: Can this stone be backlit? No. Azul Palomino is a dense, opaque stone. Unlike crystalline quartzites (like Cristallo), it does not allow light to pass through. Its beauty comes from its surface pattern and color contrast.
Q3: Why is it also called “Petrified Wood”? The linear, organic veining and the mix of brown and beige tones strongly resemble the cross-section of ancient petrified wood. However, the addition of blue minerals makes it distinct.
Q4: Is it suitable for outdoor kitchens? Yes. Quartzite is UV resistant and will not fade in direct sunlight. Its low water absorption also makes it freeze-thaw resistant.
Q5: How much does Azul Palomino cost? It is considered an Exotic / Luxury category stone. The price is higher than standard granites or Carrara marble due to its rarity, the difficulty of quarrying in Brazil, and shipping costs.
Q6: Does the color vary from block to block? Yes, significantly. Some bundles are predominantly golden-brown with hints of blue, while others are deep blue with thin gold veins. We recommend viewing current slab photos before ordering.
Q7: What is the best finish for a kitchen? Pulido is best for stain resistance and easy cleaning. Leathered is excellent for hiding fingerprints and water spots, and it enhances the tactile “wood” feel.
Q8: Is book-matching available? Yes. We prioritize stocking book-matched bundles because the linear pattern creates spectacular geometric shapes when mirrored.
Q9: Can it be used for flooring? Yes, its hardness makes it suitable for high-traffic flooring. However, due to its bold pattern, it is usually used for decorative borders or entryways rather than entire floors.
Q10: How do you package these expensive slabs? We use extra-reinforced fumigated wooden bundles with plastic sheets between polished faces to prevent scratching during ocean freight.
Q11: What is the lead time? Stock slabs can be shipped within 7 days. Custom fabrication orders typically take 3-4 weeks depending on the complexity of the cuts.
Q12: Does it scratch easily? No. It scores a 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale (glass is 5.5, knife blade is 5.5). It is very difficult to scratch Azul Palomino with normal kitchen use.
13. Why Choose Caron Stone Caron Stone has established deep relationships with Brazilian quarries to secure the most vibrant and structurally sound Azul Palomino blocks. We offer “Book-Match” selection, professional dry-lay services, and expert fabrication for luxury residential and commercial projects worldwide.
