Ancaster Stone: complete guide

History and origin

Ancaster limestone has been quarried for centuries in Lincolnshire, in the east of England, and has been widely used in churches, historic buildings and restoration. It exists in several commercial varieties, from uniform cream to mottled beige and blue versions, which come from different levels of the deposit. The blue tone corresponds to unoxidised portions of the stone. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.

Look and veining

The honey-beige background alternates with grey-blue areas, with transitions of colour and traces of fossil shells. Precisely because of this mix of tones, variability between slabs is high and should be assessed before laying. Honed, it shows the colour contrast well, while brushed or sandblasted it looks more even and matt.

Technical properties (indicative)

Recommended uses

It is used for interior floors, cladding, stairs, fireplaces and architectural details such as window sills and cornices. Outdoors it is used on façades; for outdoor paving and kitchen worktops a material less sensitive to staining and frost is preferable.

Care and maintenance

Neutral detergents and a breathable impregnator are enough to maintain it. Avoid acidic or abrasive products, which dull the surface and can alter the lighter areas.

Pairings

• sage green or grey-blue walls
• smoked oak
• brushed nickel taps

FAQ