Synthetic (Ceramic)
Man-made Polished Porcelain Tile (Artificial Geologic Lookalike)
Fused Silicate Ceramic with Alumina (Synthetic Kaolinite derivative)
Hardness: 7-8 Mohs scale; Color: Cream/Off-white; Luster: Vitreous/Glossy; Structure: Amorphous and Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture when broken)
- Hardness
- 7-8 Mohs scale
- Color
- Cream/Off-white
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glossy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7-8 Mohs scale; Color: Cream/Off-white; Luster: Vitreous/Glossy; Structure: Amorphous and Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture when broken)
Formation & geological history
Manufactured from baked clay (kaolin), feldspar, and silica fired at temperatures exceeding 2,200°F (1,200°C) to achieve vitrification.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in residential and commercial flooring, wall tiling, and countertops due to high durability and water resistance.
Geological facts
While this is a man-made material, it is engineered to mimic natural marble or limestone. Porcelain is denser and less porous than natural stone, making it more stain-resistant.
Field identification & locations
Identification in the field: Look for uniform repetition of surface patterns, clean-cut manufactured edges, and a lack of natural mineral veining on the cross-section. Commonly found in home improvement stores.
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