Pierre de Limeyrat is a refined and durable French limestone quarried in Bontemps, Limeyrat, Dordogne, in the southwestern region of France. This natural stone is widely appreciated in both contemporary and historical architecture for its earthy beige to earthy grey base tones, sometimes accented with subtle golden hues, and its natural fossil content. It is a versatile limestone with variations in texture and structural properties across different quarry layers.

Appearance & Texture

• Base Color: Earthy beige to grey tones, often featuring warm golden veining or shading throughout.
• Pattern: Delicate and organic sedimentary structures, sometimes with small fossil imprints, contributing to its authentic and timeless appearance.
• Texture: Fine to medium grain, depending on the layer. Surface can range from smooth and elegant to slightly textured, depending on finishing.

Technical Specifications

• Water Absorption (NFB 10-613) .... 0.59%
• Density .... 2,380 – 2,510 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength .... 10.60 MPa
• Compressive Strength (NFB 10-614) .... 60.0 – 81.40 MPa (varies by layer)
• Porosity (Layer dependent) (NFB 10-615) .... 4.52% – 13.1%
• Real Bulk Density (T/m³) (NFB 10-615) .... 2.67 – 2.76 T/m³
• Apparent Bulk Density (T/m³) (NFB 10-615) .... 2.33 – 2.63 T/m³

Chemical Composition (% by weight, approx.)

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃) .... 93–96%
• Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO₃) .... ~1–2%
• Silica (SiO₂) .... 1–2%
• Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃) .... <1% (may give golden hue)
• Alumina (Al₂O₃) .... Trace
• Organic Fossil Content .... Minor trace

Physical Properties

• Hardness: Medium (Mohs ~3) – typical of calcitic limestone.
• Porosity: Varies between layers (5.95% to 13.1%). Layers 1 and 4-6 have higher porosity, while Layers 0 and 2 are denser.
• Slip Resistance: Varies by finish. Bush-hammered, sandblasted, or brushed surfaces provide good slip resistance, ideal for flooring.
• Frost Resistance: Good for external applications in temperate climates, depending on porosity and installation. 

Usage Applications

Interior: Floor tiles, wall cladding, staircases, kitchen backsplashes, bathroom finishes. Ideal for luxury homes, boutique hotels, and heritage restorations

Exterior: Façades, pool surrounds, landscaping pavers, building veneers, window/door frames

Architectural Elements: Columns, fireplaces, sculptures, cornices, fountains 

Maintenance

Recommended Care:

• Clean with pH-neutral cleaners
• Avoid acidic or abrasive products
• Seal polished or honed surfaces to prevent staining
• Reseal high-traffic or outdoor surfaces every 2–5 years depending on exposure 

Cutting Sizes & Formats

Tiles:

• Standard: 30×30, 40×40, 60×40, 60×60 cm
• Custom sizes available on request

Slabs:

• Thickness: 2 cm or 3 cm
• Slab sizes: ~240–280 cm x 120–150 cm

Cut-to-size Elements: Architraves, jambs, stairs, balusters, columns, etc.

Surface Finish Options

• Honed – Soft matte surface; ideal for interior walls/floors
• Polished – Glossy, luxurious look for indoor use (less common due to porosity)
• Brushed / Antiqued – Soft textured surface, warm and rustic
• Bush-Hammered – Rough, excellent slip resistance
• Sandblasted – Light texture with subtle color enhancement
• Tumbled – Antiqued appearance for aged projects
• Chiseled / Hand-finished – Suitable for restoration or traditional settings 

Summary

Pierre de Limeyrat is a sophisticated, historic French limestone, offering a spectrum from earthy grey to beige with golden warmth. It has excellent performance in both interior and exterior architecture, with multiple layers offering varied porosity and strength. It is ideal for luxury applications, restorations, and naturalistic design, where a blend of elegance and organic texture is desired.