| Title | क्वार्ट्ज़ाइट (Quartzite)Rare Kvarṭzāiṭa Quartzite |
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| Description | क्वार्टजाइट - Kvarṭajāiṭa (Quartzite) is a metamorphic rock [1], primarily composed of quartz (SiO₂). In Indic heritage architecture, क्वार्ट्ज़ पत्थर (Quartz stone) served as a durable construction material. Its geological origin involves metamorphism of quartz-rich sandstone. Physical properties include high compressive strength (100-200 MPa), low porosity (<3%), specific gravity (2.6-2.7 g/cm³), and high abrasion resistance. स्फटिकशिला (Sphatikashila), as it was known, was sourced from quarries across Rajasthan, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka. Traditional construction methods utilized it for foundation stones, load-bearing walls, and paving. Rajput dynasty architecture extensively employed क्वार्टजाइट पत्थर (Quartzite stone). Examples can be observed in forts and palaces. Conservation efforts address weathering and erosion, employing techniques compatible with traditional practices. Thermal expansion coefficient (12 x 10⁻⁶ /°C) is a crucial consideration for restoration. படிகக்கல் (Paṭikakkal), స్ఫటికా శిల (Sphatika shila), and other regional names reflect its widespread use. Durability makes it suitable for wall cladding and roofing, but conservation requires careful material matching. |
| Also Known As | Quartzite Kvarṭzāiṭa Quartzite Metamorphic Quartzite Quartzose Rock Metaquartzite स्फटिकशिला क्वार्ट्ज़ पत्थर क्वार्ट्ज़ाइट पत्थर कठोर स्फटिक पत्थर படிகக்கல் (Paṭikakkal) స్ఫటికా శిల (Sphatika shila) ಸ್ಫಟಿಕ ಶಿಲೆ (Sphatika shile) ക്വാർട്സൈറ്റ് (Kvārṭsaiṟṟ) শিলা কোয়ার্টজাইট (Śilā kōẏārṭjāiṭa) |
| Tags | Quartzite Metamorphic Rock Quartz Hard Stone Durable |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-947160061-20-11-25-KA |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/quartzite |
| API Endpoint | https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/quartzite |
| Total Sites | 3 |
| Primary Sites | 3 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Metamorphic Rock Siliceous Sedimentary Rock |
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| Regions | Rajasthan Haryana Madhya Pradesh Karnataka |
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| Time Periods | Ancient Period Medieval Period |
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| Dynasties | Rajput Dynasty |
| Sources | Local quarries in Rajasthan Local quarries in Haryana |
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| Properties | Compressive strength: 100-200 MPa Porosity: <3% Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7 g/cm³ Thermal expansion coefficient: 12 x 10⁻⁶ /°C Density: 2.6-2.7 g/cm³ High abrasion resistance |
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| Uses | Foundation stones Load-bearing walls Paving stones Steps Paving Wall cladding Roofing Decorative aggregate Wall facing |
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| Materials | Lime Mortar Sandstone Surkhi (Brick Dust) Sand |
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| Styles | Nagara Architecture Regional Architecture Temple Architecture Rajput Architecture |
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| Categories | Temple Fort Public buildings |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Geological Survey of India Publications | Report | Geological properties of quartzite |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhosi Hill Temples Narnaul | Primary | 100% | |
| Hoysaleswara Temple Halebidu | Primary | 100% | |
| Kumbhalgarh Fort Rajsamand | Primary | 100% |