Paonazzetto: the complete guide
Paonazzetto is a brecciated marble with a white background, with light fragments framed by purple, grey and reddish veins. It has a classic yet lively look, ideal for fine cladding and furnishings.
History and origin
The name echoes that of ancient pavonazzetto, the Phrygian marble the Romans imported from Asia Minor for columns and cladding. Today's Paonazzetto, however, comes from the Apuan Alps, where brecciated marbles of similar appearance are quarried. It is a material of limited availability, much appreciated for high-end bathrooms and interiors. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.
Look and veining
The pattern is formed by white or ivory clasts of various sizes, separated by purple, plum, grey and sometimes reddish veins. Every slab is different: the density of the breccia and the intensity of the veins change even within the same block. Polished, it has bright, crisp colours; honed, a softer, more antique look.
Technical properties (indicative)
| Classification | calcitic brecciated marble |
|---|---|
| Bulk density | approx. 2,700 kg/m³ (indicative) |
| Mohs hardness | approx. 3 |
| Water absorption | low |
| Main use | interiors |
| Acid resistance | low: sensitive to acids and limescale removers |
Recommended uses
Highly suitable for walls, bathroom cladding, washbasins, vanity tops, tables, fireplaces and inlays. As flooring it creates striking effects in residential settings or prestigious lobbies. Avoid it on everyday kitchen worktops and outdoors.
Care and maintenance
Wash with neutral marble soap and dry. Protect with a stain-proofing impregnator, renewing it periodically on bathroom tops. Do not use limescale removers, concentrated bleach or abrasive sponges.
Pairings
- bronze or antique brass taps
- dove grey walls
- smoked oak and linen fabrics
FAQ
Is modern Paonazzetto the same marble used by the Romans?
No: ancient pavonazzetto came from Phrygia, in Asia Minor. Today's is an Apuan marble that recalls its brecciated look with purplish veins.
How should it be laid on a wall to show it off?
Excellent results are obtained with large-format slabs laid bookmatched or in a continuous run, avoiding overly small cuts that break up the pattern.
Is it suitable for a shower?
Yes, if well sealed and cleaned with neutral products. Very hard water should be dried off to avoid marks.
How do I order it?
Contact us to check the available slabs: we send photos and a quote on request, with the option of selecting the slabs in our showroom.
Paonazzetto: 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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