Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock
of argillaceous origin formed by the composition of mud and stone sediment
that splits into thin, smooth-surfaced layers. Slate Stones are chemically a
multi-mineral rock made of a composition of minerals and colloidal
substances. The mineral composition essentially consists of members of Mica
group commonly sericite & muscovite,and and accessory minerals such as
oxides, calcites, minor amounts quarts and feldspar along with some contents
of ferro-magnesium minerals. The content of silica is normally poor. The Clay
group commonly consists of paragonite, chlorite & kaonilite. This fine
grained meamorphic rock formed of above composition of minerals and other
organic substances has been hardened by heat and pressure. Since the
geolgical process varies greatly from place to place, Natural Slate Stones hardness and
porosity varies quite a bit.
Slate stones characteristics vary with source. It may be black, green, yellow,
brown, red or mottled and is relatively dense. Many natural slate stones that are available today have wide ranging physical characteristics and overall suitability.
The natural slate stone differs in its density, tensile strength, absorbency and
abrasion resistance.
