17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions and Decoration

Stones have been used for building constructions since the beginning of time. They are a natural material and can be found all over the world.

Stones are an inexpensive material that can be easily obtained, transported, cut and shaped to create buildings, roads, bridges and other structures.

There are many different types of stones that can be used for building construction and decoration. Each type of stone has its own unique properties that make it suitable for different applications.

In this blog post, we will take a look at 17 different types of stones that are commonly used for building construction.

Igneous Stones.

Igneous stones are formed when molten rock cools and solidifies. The molten rock is called magma when it is beneath the earth’s surface and lava when it reaches the earth’s surface.

Igneous stones can be classified in two ways: by their composition or by their cooling process.

Igneous rocks are either intrusive or extrusive. An intrusive igneous rock is formed when magma cools and solidifies beneath the surface of the Earth, while an extrusive igneous rock is formed above the surface. Many volcanic rocks are extrusive.

The most common classifications are Granite, Basalt, Obsidian and Andesite.

Granite

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Igneous Stones - Granite

Granite is a natural stone that has been used in construction for centuries.

It is an igneous rock, which means it was formed by the cooling and solidification of lava or magma.

Granite is a hard stone, making it durable and scratch-resistant. It is also heat-resistant, making it a good choice for countertops and flooring.

Granite comes in a variety of colors, making it a versatile material for home design.

Basalt.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions - Igneous Stones Basalt

Basalt is another type of igneous rock that has been used in construction for centuries. Basalt is formed by the cooling and solidification of lava or magma. Basalt is a dark-colored rock, making it ideal for use in landscaping or as pavers.

Basalt is also heat-resistant, making it a good choice for countertops and flooring. Because basalt is darker than granite, it can help to hide dirt and stains.

Basalt is also easy to clean and maintain. With just a little soap and water, you can keep your basalt surfaces looking like new. Basalt is also a very durable material, so you don’t have to worry about it cracking or chipping over time.

Obsidian.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Igneous Stones - Obsidian

Obsidian is a type of igneous rock that forms when lava cools quickly without crystallizing.

This creates a glassy texture with no crystals visible to the naked eye.

Obsidian is black or very dark in color, making it popular for use in jewelry and sculpture.

Obsidian is also brittle, so it can break easily if not handled carefully.

Obsidian can be found in a variety of locations around the world.

In the United States, it can be found in Oregon, California, and Idaho. It can also be found in Mexico, Japan, and Italy.

Andesite.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Igneous Stones - Andesite

Andesite is another type of igneous rock that forms when lava cools quickly without crystallizing.

Andesite has a similar glassy texture to obsidian but with small crystals visible within the rock itself.

Andesite comes in many different colors, making it popular for use in landscaping and architecture.

Andesite is a very strong rock, making it ideal for use in construction.

It is also heat resistant, making it a good choice for use in fireplaces and outdoor kitchens. Andesite is a very popular rock for use in landscaping and architecture because it is so versatile.


Also Read – How to Find the Perfect Building Stones for Your Home


Sedimentary Stones.

Sedimentary stone is a type of rock that forms from the accumulation and cementation of particles. It is formed by the deposition, compaction and cementation of these particles. Sedimentary rocks are usually found in layers or strata.

The most common types of sediments are clays, muds, sands, silts and carbonates. These sediments are deposited with organic matter or inorganic matter that may be dissolved or suspended in water.

When the deposition of a sediment is complete, it is then called a bed.

Sedimentary rocks are mostly found in the crust of Earth and can form from almost anything that has accumulated over geological time.

Limestone, Travertine, Sandstone, Conglomerate and Breccia are the main types of sedimentary rocks which are used for construction and decoration purposes.

Limestone

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Sedimentary Stones Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the remains of marine organisms such as coral, mollusks, and algae.

The main component of limestone is calcium carbonate, which gives the stone its characteristic white color.

Limestone is a very durable rock that has been used for centuries in construction projects such as the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Colosseum in Rome.

However, limestone is also a very soft rock, which makes it easy to carve and shape.

This has made it a popular material for sculptures and decorative objects.

Travertine

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Sedimentary Stones Travertine

Travertine is a type of limestone that is formed from hot springs or volcanoes. It has a porous surface that can be polished to give it a shiny appearance.

Travertine is often used in flooring and wall cladding because of its durability and elegant appearance.

Sandstone

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Sedimentary Stones - Sandstone

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock that is composed of sand-sized particles of rocks, minerals, or organic material.

It can be any color, but most commonly it is yellow, brown, or red.

Sandstone is frequently used in construction due to its strength and durability.

Sandstone is a versatile rock that can be used for a variety of purposes.

It is commonly used in construction due to its strength and durability.

Additionally, sandstone can be used for landscaping or as a decorative element in homes and businesses.

Conglomerate

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Sedimentary Stones - Conglomerate

Conglomerate is a type of sedimentary rock that consists of large gravel or pebble-sized particles that are cemented together by smaller particles or mineral matrix.

It can be any color, but most commonly it is gray or pinkish-gray.

Conglomerate is frequently used in construction due to its strength and durability.

The word conglomerate comes from the Latin word conglomus, meaning “rounded in lump or cluster”.

Conglomerate is formed when large pieces of rock and gravel are cemented together by smaller particles or mineral matrix.

The large pieces of rock and gravel are called clasts, and the smaller particles or mineral matrix are called matrix.

Breccia

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Sedimentary Stones - Breccia

Breccia is a type of sedimentary rock that consists of angular fragments that are cemented together by smaller particles or mineral matrix.

It can be any color, but most commonly it is gray or pinkish-gray.

Breccia is frequently used in construction due to its strength and durability.

It is formed when rocks are broken by an impact, such as a meteorite strike, and then cemented together by the smaller particles or mineral matrix.


Also Read – Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for Construction Sites


Metamorphic Stones.

Metamorphic Stone is a stone that has been created by the pressure and heat of tectonic plates. The process is called metamorphism, which can also be applied to other materials like coal and limestone.

Metamorphic stones are made up of minerals that have been changed by heat, pressure, or both. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish metamorphic stones from igneous rocks because they have many similar features.

However, the easiest way to identify them is by their composition. Metamorphic stones are made up of minerals that have been changed by heat, pressure, or both whereas igneous rocks are formed when molten rock cools and hardens into solid form.

The most common types of metamorphic stones are marble and slate which come from limestone and shale respectively. Quartzite and Gneiss are also types of Metamorphic stone and they form when sandstone and granite are subjected to high pressure and heat respectively.

Marble

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Metamorphic Stones - Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is subjected to high pressure or heat. The resulting stone is often used in sculptures and buildings.

Marble is a popular choice for countertops, floors, and fireplaces. It is a durable material that is easy to clean and maintain.

Marble comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, pink, and green.

Marble is a popular choice for home decor because it is elegant and timeless.

It is important to note that marble is a porous material and can be stained easily. Marble should be sealed regularly to prevent staining.

Quartzite.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Metamorphic Stones - Quartzite

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that forms when sandstone is subjected to high pressure or heat.

The resulting stone is often used in countertops and flooring.

Quartzite is a very popular material for countertops because it is extremely durable and has a beautiful appearance.

It is important to note that quartzite is a natural stone, so each piece is unique.

Slate.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Metamorphic Stones - Slate

Slate is a metamorphic rock that forms when shale is subjected to high pressure or heat.

The resulting stone is often used in roofing, flooring, and walls.

Slate has a high resistance to weathering and is therefore a popular choice for roofing material.

It is also fireproof and has a low heat conductivity, making it an ideal material for fireplace surrounds.

Gneiss.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Metamorphic Stones - Gneiss

Gneiss is a metamorphic rock that forms when granite is subjected to high pressure or heat.

The resulting stone is often used in construction due to its durability and strength.”

Gneiss is a popular choice for construction projects because it is extremely strong and resistant to weathering.

This makes it an ideal material for buildings and other structures that need to withstand the elements.


Also Read – What is Lintel? 9 Types of Lintels and Uses in Building


Artificial Stones.

Cement

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Artificial Stones - Cement

Cement is a man-made powder that can be mixed with water and aggregates to create concrete.

Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world.

It is made by mixing cement, water, and aggregate (sand, gravel, or crushed stone) together and then curing it with heat and pressure.

Cement is made from limestone that has been crushed and heated in a kiln.

The resulting substance is a powder that can be mixed with water and aggregates to create concrete.

The most common type of aggregate used in concrete is sand, although gravel and crushed stone are sometimes used.

Concrete is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of applications, including sidewalks, driveways, and foundations.

Asphalt.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Artificial Stones - Asphalt

Asphalt is a black, sticky substance that is made from crude oil.

It is used to make pavement for roads, parking lots, and driveways.

Asphalt is also used in roofing materials and sealants.

Asphalt is a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also easy to repair if it becomes damaged.

Asphalt is a popular choice for many people because it is affordable and easy to maintain.

Glass.

17 Types of Stones Best for Building Constructions Artificial Stones - Glass

Glass is a man-made material that is made from sand, soda ash, and limestone.

It can be clear or colored, and it is often used in windows, bottles, and eyeglasses.

Glass is a very versatile material and can be used for a variety of purposes.

It is durable and has a very long lifespan.

Glass is also recyclable, so it is a sustainable material choice.

Ceramics.

Ceramics are man-made materials that are made from clay or other minerals that have been fired in a kiln at high temperatures. They are typically hard and brittle materials that are used in making pottery, tiles, bricks, and dinnerware.

Ceramic materials have a wide range of properties that make them useful for a variety of applications. They are chemically inert, which makes them resistant to corrosion and wear.

They also have a high electrical resistance, which makes them useful in electrical applications.

Ceramics also have a high melting point, which makes them useful in high-temperature applications.

Conclusion

There are a variety of stones that can be used for construction, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

If you are considering stones for making walls then you should consider the stones having high strength like basalt. Granite is strong but is costlier than other stones.

You also consider stones for improving the aesthetics of your home. marble is usually used for decoration purposes.

Ultimately, the right stone for a particular construction project will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project. With so many options available, it is important to consult with an experienced contractor or stone expert to ensure that the best possible material is selected.