Paonazzo: the complete guide
Paonazzo is an Apuan marble with an ivory white background crossed by broad, sinuous veins in shades of purple, grey and gold. It is a dramatic material, chosen for bathrooms, walls and prestigious tops.
History and origin
It belongs to the family of fine marbles from the Apuan Alps, known for their coloured veins on a light background. The name recalls the 'paonazzo', i.e. purplish, colour of its veins. Quarried in limited quantities, it is appreciated in high-end interior design and in the creation of unique furnishings. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.
Look and veining
The background is warm white, tending towards ivory, with broad veins ranging from purple to anthracite grey and golden highlights. The pattern is highly variable, so slabs must be chosen one by one and are often bookmatched. Polishing enhances the colour contrast, while honing softens it into a more subdued effect.
Technical properties (indicative)
| Classification | calcitic marble |
|---|---|
| Bulk density | approx. 2,700 kg/m³ (indicative) |
| Mohs hardness | 3 |
| Water absorption | very low |
| Main use | interiors |
| Acid resistance | low: beware of citrus, wine and acidic detergents |
Recommended uses
Ideal for bathroom cladding, bookmatched walls, vanity tops and washbasins, tables and headboards. It is also used for floors in fine residential settings. In the kitchen it requires great care and acceptance of a patina; not recommended outdoors.
Care and maintenance
Neutral detergents and soft cloths; dry drops of hard water on bathroom tops. The stain-proofing impregnator should be renewed roughly once a year. Marks caused by acids can only be removed by professional re-polishing.
Pairings
- plum or mauve velvets and fabrics
- brushed gold taps
- walnut and warm grey lacquers
FAQ
What is the difference between Paonazzo and Paonazzetto?
Paonazzo generally has broader, more sinuous veins with purple and golden tones; Paonazzetto has a more brecciated pattern, with white fragments framed by purplish veins.
Is it suitable for a floor?
Yes, in residential settings. In high-traffic areas it tends to dull and needs periodic re-polishing.
Can bookmatched slabs be obtained?
Yes, by selecting consecutive slabs from the same block, mirrored book-like compositions are obtained, very well suited to walls and bathrooms.
How do I order it?
Slabs must be chosen one by one: on request we send high-resolution photos of the available slabs and a detailed quote.
Paonazzo: 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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