Arabescato Garfagnana: complete guide

History and origin

The Garfagnana, a valley in the province of Lucca on the inland side of the Apuan Alps, has long been home to marble quarrying. The arabescato marbles from this area are white marbles with branching grey veins, widely used in bathroom furnishings and cladding. The trade name indicates the area of origin rather than a single quarry. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.

Look and veining

The white background is crossed by grey veins of varying thickness, sometimes fine and soft, sometimes bolder, forming an irregular network. The intensity and direction of the pattern change from one slab to the next, a feature that makes every surface unique. Matt honing enhances the brightness of the white; polishing makes the veining more legible.

Technical properties (indicative)

Recommended uses

It lends itself to floors, cladding, stairs, bathroom tops and, with careful use, kitchen worktops. Avoid it outdoors in areas with severe frost and on unprotected surfaces subject to frequent contact with acids.

Care and maintenance

Use marble-specific or pH-neutral detergents with a soft cloth. Floors benefit from periodic honing and re-polishing in high-traffic areas; oil stains should be treated promptly with an absorbent poultice.

Pairings

• brushed steel and stainless steel appliances
• chestnut or smoked oak
• contrasting grey marble, such as Bardiglio

FAQ