Chinese Bluestone: complete guide
The name Chinese Bluestone commonly refers to a dark grey-blue limestone imported from China, similar in appearance to Belgian bluestone. It is chosen for its deep colour and robustness, generally at a more affordable cost.
History and origin
It is an imported material widely available on the international market, mainly for paving, stairs, thresholds and street furniture. It is often offered as an alternative to European bluestones, which it resembles in appearance, although its characteristics vary depending on origin and batch. It is available in many finishes and standard formats. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.
Look and veining
The background is dark grey-blue, with small light spots or specks, calcite veinlets and sometimes fossil traces. Variability between slabs is moderate. Honed or polished, it becomes almost blue-black, while bush-hammered, sandblasted or brushed it is noticeably lighter, an effect to be considered when choosing.
Technical properties (indicative)
| Classification | compact limestone (trade name) |
|---|---|
| Density | approx. 2,650-2,700 kg/m³ (indicative) |
| Mohs hardness | approx. 3-4 |
| Water absorption | low |
| Main use | paving, stairs, thresholds, outdoor areas |
| Acid resistance | low: acids leave light marks |
Recommended uses
It is suitable for indoor and outdoor paving, stairs, thresholds, window sills, pool surrounds and kerbs. It is not recommended for kitchen worktops because acids leave light marks that are very noticeable on the dark background.
Care and maintenance
Clean with neutral detergents and protect with an impregnator, especially outdoors. Over time honed surfaces may lighten slightly: this is a natural evolution of the material.
Pairings
- white plaster and pearl-grey walls
- light oak
- Corten steel or titanium zinc
FAQ
How does it differ from Belgian bluestone?
The appearance is similar, but origin and some characteristics such as pattern, veining and density differ. Chinese Bluestone is generally cheaper; for projects with specific requirements it is best to compare technical data sheets.
Does the name bluestone always refer to the same material?
No: in some markets bluestone also refers to basalt. In our supplies we always specify the nature of the stone and provide the technical data sheet.
Why is the bush-hammered surface light grey?
Mechanical processing crushes the surface crystals and lightens their tone; when wet or honed the stone becomes dark again.
How do I order it?
On request: tell us the application, dimensions and finish, and we will send you a quotation, technical data sheet and photos of the slabs.
Bluestone Cinese: 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.
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