Branco El Rei Marble is quarried in Portugal, primarily in the Estremoz Anticline zone within the regions of Vila Viçosa, Lagoa, Estremoz, and Évora, Alentejo. This region is world-renowned for its high-quality ornamental marble production.

Appearance, Texture & Pattern

Base Color: Predominantly white, sometimes with a soft ivory or warm undertone.

Veining: Distinct creamy golden to light brownish veins or swirls, appearing in varied densities.

Texture: Fine- to medium-grained, compact crystalline marble with a uniform base and subtle movement.

Pattern: Depending on the block, the veining can be linear, cloudy, or slightly dynamic, making it both versatile and elegant for modern and classical interiors.

Technical Properties

• Water Absorption: 0.09% by weight
• Density: 2,710 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 17.5 – 19.0 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 85.5 – 87.5 MPa
• Abrasion Resistance: Moderate
• Hardness (Mohs scale): ~3 – 4
• Porosity: Low to moderate

These values place Branco El Rei within the range of high-quality decorative marbles, suitable for most interior applications.

Chemical & Mineral Composition

(% by weight – typical for Estremoz marbles)

• CaCO₃ (Calcite): 95–98%
• MgCO₃: <1.5%
• SiO₂ (Silica): <0.5–1%
• Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide): 0.1–0.4%
• Al₂O₃ (Alumina): 0.1–0.3%
• Others (trace minerals): Minor content

Usage & Applications

Branco El Rei is ideal for a wide range of decorative and architectural uses:

• Interior flooring and wall cladding
• Bathroom countertops, vanities, and shower walls
• Kitchen countertops (with proper sealing)
• Staircases and balustrades
• Fireplace surrounds
• Tabletops and furniture accents
• Interior columns and decorative panels

* Due to its calcitic structure, it is less suitable for outdoor applications in freeze-thaw environments unless treated and protected.

Available Cutting Sizes (cm)

Standard Tiles:

• 30 × 30 × 2 cm
• 60 × 30 × 2 cm
• 60 × 60 × 2 cm

Slabs:

• 2 cm and 3 cm thickness (standard)
• Custom sizes upon request, depending on block availability.

Surface Finishes

Branco El Rei marble supports a wide variety of finishes, enhancing its natural beauty:

• Polished – For high-gloss, reflective surfaces. Most popular for countertops and floors.
• Honed – Smooth and matte; ideal for softer visual effects.
• Brushed / Antiqued – Lightly textured for a rustic or aged look.
• Sandblasted – Subtle matte texture, often used in vertical cladding.
• Tumbled – Aged, soft-edged effect, commonly used in small-format tiles or mosaics.

Maintenance Guidelines

Sealing: Recommended before installation and periodically afterward to prevent staining.

Cleaning: Use pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaners.

Avoid acidic substances (vinegar, lemon juice, etc.).

Restoration: Can be re-polished or re-honed to refresh appearance over time.

Heat Resistance: Good, but thermal shock should be avoided (e.g., placing hot pans directly on countertops).