Origin & Geological Formation

Quarry Location: China

Stone Type: Rhyolite, a fine-grained igneous rock of volcanic origin. Formed from rapidly cooled silica-rich lava, this stone exhibits distinctive flow structures and crystalline textures typical of ancient volcanic activity.

Appearance, Texture & Pattern

Base Color:

• Ranges from silver smoky grey to earthy grey, with subtle tonal shifts depending on mineral concentration and cut.

Pattern:

• Features dark, fluid-like flow patterns, remnants of historic lava flow lines, giving it a dynamic, organic appearance.
• Occasionally interspersed with microscopic quartz and feldspar crystals which catch the light subtly.

Texture:

• Fine-grained to very fine-grained Naturally compact, dense, and smooth to the touch
• When honed or polished, the surface becomes satin-like, while finishes such as bush-hammered or flamed create tactile grip.

Physical & Mechanical Properties

• Water Absorption .... ~0.25–0.35% by weight
• Density .... ~2640–2680 kg/m³ (2.64–2.68 g/cm³)
• Compressive Strength .... ~140–170 MPa
• Flexural Strength .... ~12–18 MPa
• Porosity .... Low (~1–2.5%)
• Hardness (Mohs) .... ~6.0 – 7.0
• Slip Resistance (R Rating) .... R10 (Honed), R11+ (Flamed/Bush-Hammered)

Chemical & Mineral Composition (% by weight)

• SiO₂ (Silica) .... 70–75%
• Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide) .... 12–15%
• K₂O (Potassium Oxide) .... 4–6%
• Na₂O (Sodium Oxide) .... 3–5%
• Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide) .... 1–2.5%
• CaO + MgO .... <1% combined
• Other trace minerals .... ~1% The high silica content gives it quartz-like durability and resistance to weathering.

Surface Finish Options

• Polished .... Glossy surface, shows veining and color depth
• Honed .... Matte/satin finish, soft to touch, elegant indoors
• Flamed .... Textured, anti-slip – ideal for exteriors
• Bush-Hammered .... Rough tactile surface, slip-resistant
• Sandblasted .... Even, matte, lightly textured
• Natural Split .... Raw finish with rustic appeal for walls or landscaping

Available Cutting Sizes (cm)

Slabs:

• Thicknesses: 2 cm and 3 cm standard
• Dimensions: ~240–300 cm × 120–160 cm

Tiles (Cut-to-size):

• 30×30, 30×60, 60×60, 40×80, 60×90 cm
• Custom sizes available on request

Other Forms: Cobblestones, wall cladding panels, paving blocks, steps

Applications & Usage

• Interior Use:Flooring, wall cladding, countertops, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds
• Exterior Use (due to high strength and slip resistance): Paving, facades, landscape features, staircases, pool decks
• Architectural/Design Features: Sculptures, benches, and water features due to its hardness and workability

Maintenance & Care

• Sealing: Recommended for polished or honed finishes to protect from staining.
• Cleaning: Use neutral-pH stone cleaners; avoid acids or harsh abrasives.
• Durability: High resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and chemical weathering.
• Low Maintenance: Dense surface resists wear, ideal for high-traffic areas.

Summary

China Grey Rhyolite is a durable, high-performance volcanic stone that offers both aesthetic sophistication and mechanical strength. Its flowy dark veining on grey base, formed by ancient lava, makes it a distinctive choice for modern, industrial, or nature-inspired designs. With excellent resistance to wear, low porosity, and a broad array of finishes, it is perfectly suited for interior elegance and exterior resilience.