What are Natural Stones and How are They Formed?

Definition of Natural Stones

Natural stones are minerals that are formed as a result of different processes in the earth's crust. These stones, which are generally used for aesthetic, decorative, industrial and medical purposes, are formed as a result of the chemical and physical effects of nature over billions of years. The variety of natural stones varies widely, from color to structure, from hardness to the mineral components they contain.

Formation Processes of Natural Stones

Igneous (Volcanic) Processes:
- Formation: Natural stones are formed by the cooling and solidification of magma or lava under the earth's crust.
- Examples: Granite, basalt, obsidian.
- Details: Igneous rocks are formed by the crystallization of magma that has risen to the surface or cooled underground during volcanic activity. The rate of cooling and the composition of the magma determine the color, structure and crystal size of the rocks.
Metamorphic Processes:
- Formation: It is formed by the chemical and physical changes of existing rocks under high temperature and pressure.
- Examples: Marble, schist, gneiss.
- Details: Metamorphic rocks are rocks that recrystallize when existing rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's crust. This process dramatically changes the mineral structure and texture of the rocks.
Sedimentary Processes:
- Formation: It is formed by the accumulation and compression of particles carried by external factors such as water, wind or ice.
- Examples: Limestone, sandstone, shale.
- Details: Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation of mineral and organic particles carried by external factors such as water or wind and solidifying over time. Fossils are usually found in such rocks.

Chemical and Physical Properties of Natural Stones

Chemical Composition: Natural stones are generally composed of silicate, carbonate, oxide and phosphate minerals. The unique chemical composition of each stone determines its color and physical properties.
Crystal Structure: The internal structure of stones is formed by the arrangement of atoms in a certain order. These crystal structures determine the properties of stones such as hardness, fracture and brightness.
Hardness: The Mohs hardness scale measures how resistant a stone is to scratching. For example, diamond is the hardest natural stone and is a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Color: The colors of stones vary depending on the mineral components they contain and their formation processes. Elements such as iron, copper, manganese are the main factors that determine the color of stones.

Usage Areas of Natural Stones

Jewelry and Jewellery: Due to its aesthetic and durable properties, it is widely used in jewellery such as rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
Decoration: It is preferred in interior and exterior decoration, especially in countertops, floors and wall coverings.
Industrial: Used in industrial applications such as cutting tools, abrasives and building materials.
Medical and Healing Purposes: It is believed to provide various benefits in alternative medicine and meditation practices.

Resources

With this article, you can learn what natural stones are, how they are formed and their areas of use. Don't forget to shop from reliable sources for more information about natural stones and quality products.