The Alabaster

Alabaster is the name assigned to a type of stone of chalky or calcitic origin, we talk about calcium sulfate hydrate which is characterized as follows:

 

  • Chemical formula Ca[SO4] 2H2O
  • Mineralogical composition: chalk 96 – 99%
  • Traces of calcite, anhydride, celestine and clay minerals.
Blocchi_di_pietra

Types of alabaster used

In Gloria Giannelli’s workshop only natural high quality alabaster is used at any time.

Translucent White

White colored variety of alabaster, more or less transparent. It is also called “scaglione” and it has less grains than other alabaster types.

Transparent White

Particularly transparent alabaster variety, white colored with few black, gray or brown grains that appear more or less evident.

Given its transparency it is mainly used for lighting.

Agata

Agata alabaster is the finest and rarest alabaster type. Given the hard consistency it is more difficult to process. It is amber colored with many nuances ranging from very pale shades to intense brown.

Grey

Little translucent alabaster, with grains ranging from light grey to dark grey. It is presented with many shades, grains and colors. It may present a marbled appearance: this is why this alabaster type is also called “Marble stone”.

Intense Grey

A variety of alabaster also called “cenerino”, very dark grey,  similar to black colored, with an opaque appearance. When it has homogeneous color and consistency, it recalls slate.