Guide to the Different Types of Stone Fireplace

The different types of stone fireplace can leave you feeling worn yourself. Unless you already know exactly what you are looking for, it can be hard to figure out what you want.

From subtle and minimalist to bold and grand, natural stone fireplaces are incredibly versatile. While looking for your perfect one, it’s good to get an idea of what each stone is to help you on your way. Read our guide to the different types of stone fireplaces to make a start...

What Stone for Fireplaces?

There’s no doubt that natural stone fireplaces are one of the most sought after at the moment. Non combustible, durable and heat resistant, they have everything you would need from a fireplace.

However, that’s not to say the decision is easy! There are so many options of stone fireplaces to choose from, each with their own unique properties and considerations. As the centrepiece of your room, it’s important that you get the look that you want to either blend in with your decor, or become a showstopper!

Take the time to get a feel for the different stone fireplaces on offer and consider the look you want to go for...

Jura Stone Fireplaces

What is Jura Stone?

Jura stone is a type of limestone extracted in Germany, though it is also often described as marble due to its similar appearance and hard make up.

Why Choose a Jura Stone Fireplace?

Jura stone is often one of the less expensive materials used to make fireplaces. It is suitable for use with gas and electric fireplaces, though can crack when faced with solid fuel burning. Mostly light in colour, our jura stone fireplaces are ideal if you want a bold yet simplistic look, offering modern lines without intricate distractions.

Thanks to their minimalism, they will fit pretty seamlessly into most room decors, and you won’t struggle with finding a fire to match. Jura stone is also relatively low maintenance.

Limestone Fireplaces

What is Limestone?

Limestone is porous sedimentary rock made out of calcium carbonate. It is often produced on seabeds and has been used since ancient times thanks to being relatively easy to cut and carve into elaborate patterns.

Why Choose a Limestone Fireplace?

Our limestone fireplaces suit a range of budgets, depending on how much of a feature you want to make. It doesn’t burn evenly, so is only suited to gas and electric fires, since it may crack under the heat of solid fuel burning.

Like jura stone, limestone is light in colour and offers a timeless style. While its natural finish is matte, it can be polished up into a light shine. It also requires sealing, so make sure yours is properly prepared, and keep drinks away from it that could cause watermarks. Sturdy and chunky looking, limestone can take on a traditional or modern appearance, whether you want something clean and contemporary, or with delicate carvings.

We also feature Agean Limestone fire surrounds, which stand out for their clear white colouring, creating a striking effect.

Read our full guide on limestone fireplaces for more information.

Granite Stone Fireplaces

What is Granite?

Granite is a very hard rock that can vary in colour, depending on its mineralogy. You can see its impressive potential in the carvings of Mount Rushmore, though it is used for multiple purposes across the world, as it is so durable.

Why Choose a Granite Stone Fireplace?

If you are looking for something seriously striking, a granite fireplace may be what you need. Available in a bold black colour with a high shine, you can polish up your granite to give it a luxurious finish.

While it is highly durable, a granite hearth will likely crack under the heat of a solid fuel fire, unless it is prepared by being cut into slabs to allow for expansion. It is, however, perfect for gas and electric fires, and is easy to clean and maintain.

Marble Stone Fireplaces

What is Marble?

Marble is a form of limestone that has undergone metamorphism, resulting in the swirling and veined pattern it is known for. The material of choice for many sculptors, it has always had a sense of luxury.

Why Choose a Marble Stone Fireplace?

Our marble fire surrounds are perfect for adding a touch of grandeur to your fireplace. Highly durable, they are suitable for all types of fires, including solid fuel burning fires. The classical style carvings are perfect for creating a traditional look and will no doubt bring a touch of class to your room.

Mainly light in colour, your marble fire surround can be polished up or left looking natural. With plenty of character, each one is unique depending on the nature of the rock, making marble one of the most admired fireplace stones. The downside? It can be prone to chipping and staining, so take care of it well.

Take a look at our guide on how to clean marble fireplaces and surrounds to keep it looking as good as new.

Micro Marble Stone Fireplaces

What is Micro Marble?

Micro marble is the only man made type of stone on this list. To create it, marble is ground down into a powder and mixed with a small amount of resin to create a smooth-toned stone that can be carved into a fireplace.

Why Choose a Micro Marble Stone Fireplace?

The unique nature of each piece of marble is something many people enjoy. However, if you would rather your rock be more predictable, a micro marble fireplace can be a great option. In the grinding down of the marble, the pattern and any blemishes are broken away, resulting in a beautifully clear stone.

Maintaining the elegance and gloss of natural marble, micro marble also has the added benefit of being more durable. Due to the resin added to the mix, it is less likely to chip, as well as being more affordable and easier to maintain. However, the resin also makes it less able to withstand heat, so it is best kept to use with gas and electric fires.

We hope this guide has helped you decide which type of stone fireplace would make the perfect addition to your home. Don’t forget to browse our full range of fireplaces and surrounds and enjoy our free delivery if you order from Direct Fireplaces!

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