Simply Fascinating: Unique Images Made of Natural Stone
The formation of natural stones is closely linked to the geological history of our planet. Over millions and even billions of years, various geological forces such as heat, pressure, chemical reactions, and erosion have influenced and shaped the rocks.
Natural stones contain components that are millions of years old from the ancient flora and fauna. They can include remnants of fossils, shellfish, or rare minerals and gemstones. Fascinating, isn't it?
The Possibly Oldest Story in the World...
... is our Earth's history. It began approximately 4.5 billion years ago with the formation of the proto-Earth, a fiery ball. Over the following billions of years, a multitude of events and changes took place. Continents formed, and oceans emerged.
Earth's history encompasses impressive epochs such as the Archaean Eon, during which the first traces of life on Earth emerged. Or the Age of Dinosaurs, when these colossal reptiles dominated the landmasses. It was followed by the Iron Age, the formation of mountains, and the development of the first mammals.
The rocks we now call natural stones are silent witnesses to this fascinating history. Each stone tells a story of past ages, of long-extinct creatures, and the dramatic changes our planet has undergone.
The observation and utilization of natural stones are, therefore, not only an aesthetic experience but also a journey into the fascinating past of our planet. It reminds us of how small and transient our own existence is in comparison to the temporal dimension of Earth's history.
For us, natural stones are not just materials but also sources of inspiration and wonder about the beauty and complexity of our world, which has existed for billions of years and continues to reshape itself.
STEINBILDER: Unmatched in Uniqueness
Each of our STEINBILDER is a unique masterpiece made from millions of years old natural stone. It is created through an elaborate process from a massive stone block and meticulously handcrafted in Germany.
Geology & Earth History Included
With the purchase of a STEINBILD, you will receive a detailed description of the processes that occurred during the formation of the processed natural stone. This description includes information about the Earth's history, the flora and fauna of that era, as well as extensive details about the stone itself.
Types of Natural Stone at STEINBILD
Formation of Natural Stones
Forged in the Fire of the Earth
Many natural stones are formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava that has risen from the Earth's interior. When the magma reaches the surface and cools down, it forms what is known as igneous rocks, such as granite or basalt. These rocks consist of a variety of minerals arranged in a crystalline structure.
A Journey Through Time in Sediment
Another process that contributes to the formation of natural stones is sedimentation. Over time, eroded rock fragments, sand, silt, and other materials accumulate in bodies of water or on land. Under the pressure of overlying layers, these sediments are compressed and solidified, giving rise to sedimentary rocks such as sandstone, limestone, or shale.
Transformation through the Power of the Earth
Furthermore, certain rocks have formed through metamorphic processes. This means that pre-existing rocks have been transformed by heat and pressure within the Earth's crust. These metamorphic rocks, such as marble, basalt, or quartzite, are characterized by their unique textures, patterns, and mineral compositions.
A Testament to Past Eras
Therefore, the different types of natural stones are the result of a multi-million-year-old Earth history, including the movement of continents, volcanic eruptions, erosions, and other geological processes. Each natural stone is unique in terms of its mineralogical composition, appearance, hardness, and usability.