竜 山 石
Tatsuyama stone
The meaning of Tatsuyama stone is ”Kanji”
竜(Dragon) 山(Mountain) 石 (Stone).
It is a stone quarried from the Dragon Mountain..
Historical Background
It has been quarried for 1700 years in Takasago city which is located in Hyogo prefecture, Japan. Tatsuyama stone was first created by the volcanic eruption that occurred about 100 million years ago when accumulated stone deposits were crushed and reconsolidated in water. Tatsuyamastone is known to be the only stone in Japan that is still being quarried from the same location.
Back in 1700 years ago Tatsuyama stone was used as the main material for creating a sarcophagus, and only those who had high status were allowed to be placed in coffins made of yellow Tatsuyama stone, also called “Royal Stone”
The main components of Tatsuyama stone
- Silica 68%
- Aluminium 12%
- Potassium 6%
- Sodium 4%
- Iron 1%
- other components: Manganese, Titanium, and 9% Magnesium
Texture
Tatsuyama stone is known to have an interesting texture which, when the stone gets polished, creates a very smooth and light texture like having the same sensation as touching a baby's skin.
Color
For Tatsuyama stone there are three naturally made colors: blue, yellow, and red.
Currently blue and yellow are the only colors quarried. The color red is very precious because there are very few reserves of this color, and it is not quarried today.
Characteristics
As the characteristic of Tatsuyama stone, it has a fine texture and a hardness suitable for processing, which makes it possible to create in different shapes and sizes.
Water resistance
Tatsuyama stone is known to have great water absorption. Few drops of water would quickly dry off and even quicker when placed in a well-ventilated area due to having water repellent as one of the characteristics. If you are considering the moisture seepage we recommend applying a water repellent coating, but regularly maintenance is required.
The amount of Maintenance would vary depending on the frequency used, and if so the maintenance should be performed when you feel the effectiveness of the product has weakened.
Oil resistance
As Tatsuyama Stone absorbs water very well, please be careful with oil stains. It may cause stains or dirt. When oil is spilled on the stone, wipe off the stain as soon as possible. When the oil is wiped immediately it is possible to reduce the stain, but it is difficult to remove it completely. Like water resistance we recommend applying water repelling and maintenance with care.
Tatsuyama stone quarry in the old days
