Dimensional stones in Argentina

MOSCH, S.; LOPEZ DE LUCHI, M.G.

Zeitschrift der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften

E. Schweizerbart Science Publishers

Lugar: Stuttgart; Año: 2007 vol. 158 p. 447 - 469

1860-1804

Dimensional stone material for use in constructions and monuments is common worldwide and can be traced back to the dawn of human civilization. During the last three decades the market for dimensional stones has grown rapidly, which is connected to the demand for high-quality material. Every ten years a duplication of the accession rate can be assumed in the use of ornamental rocks. Between 1998 and 2002 the Argentine industry passed through a deep economic slump. Although the dimensional stone sector has also been affected, a light continuous rebound can be recognized, which began at the end of 2002. Like other South American countries, Argentina has a large resource potential in regards to dimensional stones, due to its multifaceted geological origin. Reopening closed quarries would be advisable, because the resources can be more efficiently exploited using modern-day extraction techniques. An overview on the inventory of dimensional stones and the corresponding commercial grades in Argentina are outlined in this study. The investigation includes the unique rocks known worldwide, rocks which show a high variability in structure and colour, as well as rocks that are generally in demand at the international market. For the different commercial grades brief descriptions of lithology, quarry situation as well as variations in colour and décor, and the petrophysical and mechanical properties of the rocks are presented.