
Bardiglio Imperiale marble: the complete guide
Bardiglio Imperiale is a blue-grey marble from the Apuan Alps with darker, wavy veins. Elegant and understated, it is one of the most appreciated greys for floors and bathrooms.
History and origin
Bardiglio is the grey variety of Apuan marble, quarried for centuries alongside Carrara whites and used in historic floors, often in a checkerboard with white. Imperiale stands out for its bolder pattern and bluish reflections. It is one of Marmi di Carrara's exclusive materials.
Look and veining
A grey background with blue hues, crossed by dark grey and anthracite veins, parallel or wavy. Polished, the blue tones come out strongly; honed, it becomes a softer, more contemporary grey. Variation between slabs is medium.
Technical properties (indicative)
| Compressive strength | about 1,385 kg/cm² (company data sheet) |
|---|---|
| Flexural strength | about 215 kg/cm² |
| Density | about 2,695 kg/m³ |
| Mohs hardness | about 3 |
| Availability | limited |
| Main use | interiors |
Recommended uses
Excellent for floors, even in large formats, bathroom cladding, stairs, vanity tops, thresholds and window sills. It is classic in checkerboards with Carrara whites and modern in large honed slabs. It takes every finish, including brushed and bush-hammered.
Care and maintenance
Clean with neutral detergents; avoid acids and abrasives. Grey hides everyday dirt well, but acid marks remain visible on a polished surface: honed is better for heavily used surfaces. A protective treatment is recommended.
Pairings
- With Statuario or Bianco Carrara in checkerboards and borders.
- With walnut and brass for a warm classic.
- With concrete, steel and glass in industrial interiors.
FAQ
What is the difference between Bardiglio Imperiale and Nuvolato?
Imperiale has more defined veins and blue reflections; Nuvolato has a softened "cloudy" pattern and more even grey tones.
Is it suitable for floors?
Yes, it is one of its best applications, even in large formats.
Can it be used outdoors?
Its main use is indoors; for outdoor use ask us about thicknesses and finishes.
Which marbles does it pair with?
With Carrara whites for classic checkerboards and with black marbles for strong contrasts.
Bardiglio Imperiale: available on request
We supply this stone as blocks, slabs, tiles and custom-made pieces. Tell us size, thickness and quantity: we will send photos of the available slabs and a quote within 24 hours.
Similar materials

Marmo Ipoh Natural
Marbles · Read the guide →
Gris Toledo
Marbles · Read the guide →
Gris Siboney
Marbles · Read the guide →
Bardiglio Nuvolato
Marbles · Read the guide →
Bardiglietto
Marbles · Read the guide →
Bardiglio Cappella
Marbles · Read the guide →
Sunny Grey
Marbles · Read the guide →