Lioz Vermelho Limestone is a stunning natural stone that stands out for its distinctive dark pinkish to brick crimson red tonalities, with striking dark red streaks and occasional grey shades. Quarried in Portugal—specifically in Fervença, Pero Pinheiro, Sintra, and the Lisboa region—this limestone has a rich historical and architectural heritage, making it a highly sought-after material for both traditional and contemporary applications.

Texture and Pattern

Lioz Vermelho is a fossilized micro-crystalline sedimentary limestone with a fine to medium-grained texture. Its captivating visual appeal comes from the interplay of its warm red tones with fossilized marine remains, as well as the presence of darker red streaks and soft grey hues. These dynamic color variations and patterns lend the stone a sophisticated, timeless look.

Test Results

• Water Absorption: 0.07%
• Density: 2,696 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 12.6 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 129.6 MPa
• Abrasion Resistance: Good Hardness (Mohs): 3–4

Chemical Composition (% by weight)

• CaCO₃ (Calcium Carbonate): ~94–96%
• MgCO₃ (Magnesium Carbonate): ~1–2%
• SiO₂ (Silica): ~1–2%
• Fe₂O₃ (Iron Oxide): ~0.2–0.4%
• Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide): ~0.3–0.5%

Other trace minerals and fossil inclusions contribute to the stone’s unique appearance.

Mineral Composition (% by weight)

• Calcite: ~94–96%
• Dolomite: ~1–2%
• Quartz: ~1–2%
• Other minor minerals and fossil fragments: ~1–2%

Usage

Due to its strength and timeless beauty, Lioz Vermelho Limestone is ideal for:

• Exterior and interior wall cladding
• Flooring in residential and commercial spaces
• Stairs, window sills, and thresholds
• Columns and balustrades
• Decorative architectural elements
• Restoration of historical buildings and monuments

Maintenance

Lioz Vermelho requires standard maintenance similar to other limestones. Periodic sealing helps protect against staining and enhances color depth. Use pH-neutral cleaners and avoid acidic or abrasive products to maintain the stone’s natural polish and structure.

Cutting Sizes (cm/inch)

Standard slab thicknesses: 2 cm (3/4"), 3 cm (1 1/4")

Typical slab dimensions: up to 300 cm x 180 cm (118" x 71")

Cut-to-size tiles:

• 30 x 30 cm (12" x 12")
• 60 x 30 cm (24" x 12")
• 60 x 60 cm (24" x 24")
• 120 x 60 cm (48" x 24") and other custom sizes upon request

Surface Finish Options

• Polished: Enhances the stone’s rich color and fossil details, giving a refined, high-gloss finish
• Honed: Smooth and matte, offering a soft, understated elegance
• Brushed: Lightly textured for a more rustic, tactile surface
• Sandblasted: Subtle texture, great for slip resistance in outdoor spaces
• Bush-Hammered: Coarse, rugged texture for decorative and slip-resistant applications
• Antiqued or Tumbled: Softened edges and aged appearance, suitable for restoration or rustic designs

Conclusion

Lioz Vermelho Limestone is a testament to Portugal’s rich geological and architectural heritage. Its beautiful color palette, fossil inclusions, and robust physical properties make it a versatile and enduring choice for a variety of architectural and design applications.