Alabaster

What is it?

It is a variety of calcium carbonate or gypsum, or gypsum stone (hydrated calcium sulfate), which is presented in compact form.

It is one of the most special minerals we can find in nature. Since ancient times it has been considered as a noble material and precious stone and used as a decorative and artistic element.

It is the only rock extracted directly from nature that is translucent, diffuses light through its tiny crystals, which gives a particular charm to environments decorated with this precious mineral.

Pieza alabastro (5000-3100 a.C) - Museu del Perfum - Barcelona

History of

The products obtained from alabaster have had a very diverse historical evolution. Initially the Egyptians, the Greeks and also the Chinese used it for handicraft products. Later in Spain, in sculptural altarpieces of churches and monasteries.

At the beginning of the 20th century, designers of Art-Deco and Art Nouveau used it for the first time as light diffusers in the design of decorative lamps, taking advantage of its transparency and natural veinage.

The natural marbling of alabaster that makes each piece "unique", along with the craftsmanship and conceptual beauty, has entered strongly into interior design and decoration.

Characteristics

Variety of white stone, not very hard, compact, translucent, marble-like appearance and its crystalline system is monoclinic. Its softness allows to cut it with very elaborated forms, it is soluble in water and cannot be used outdoors.

It has a low hardness and is easy to polish facilitating the moulding and adaptation to any surface and a great variety of colours and tones.

These unique properties make alabaster one of the most highly valued materials in the world by architects, designers, interior designers and decorators to create elegant environments and exclusive spaces.

Cómo elaboramos nuestros productos