Limestone
Limestone from Öland, Gotland, Östergötland, Jämtland and Estonia – in sand beige, grey, red and black. Here you can see how the stones differ, where they work best and what they cost.
About limestone
The limestone around the Baltic Sea formed on the seabed 400–500 million years ago, from lime in corals, shells and algae. That is why fossils often show in the tiles – and why colour and pattern vary from tile to tile.
Limestone is soft and warm underfoot, works well with underfloor heating and develops a beautiful patina over the years. It is laid on floors and walls in hallways, kitchens and bathrooms. Some types are frost resistant and can be used outdoors – this is shown for each stone below. The stone is sealed after laying; the full system is in our care guide.
Öland
Red, grey-brown and grey tones from small, family-owned quarries on Öland. The castle mix can be found in manor houses across Sweden; Hors from Gillberga is grey with distinct marbling. Most Öland types are frost resistant – Hors is for indoor use.
Gotland
Sand-beige and warm grey limestone from an ancient coral reef, often with clear fossils and shells. Norrvange and Kappelshamn are quarried by Slite stenhuggeri, in business since 1907. Several types are frost resistant and work as well on the terrace as in the bathroom.
Borghamn, Östergötland
Grey and grey-brown limestone from the shore of Lake Vättern, with lively marbling, fossil imprints and hints of green and brown. Available honed and brushed. Borghamn limestone is not frost resistant and is laid indoors.
Jämtland
Grey, almost black and red limestone from Brunflo in Jämtland. A dense stone with subtle to distinct veining that pairs well with brass and fine wood. All three types are frost resistant.
Estonia
Light grey Lindanäs from the quarry outside Tallinn, even and calm in its pattern, and light, almost white Alevik from Saaremaa with small cavities like a travertine. Lindanäs is laid indoors; Alevik is frost resistant.
Rosenthal
A soft dolomitic limestone, also known as dolomite marble, in blue-grey and sand beige with distinct marbling. Matt-honed surface that hardens over time. Frost resistant.
Honed, brushed or diamond-milled?
Honed (also called matt-honed) gives a smooth, matt surface where colour and pattern show clearly. Brushed gives a softer, slightly undulating surface with more texture. Diamond-milled and planed give grip and are often used outdoors. All finishes are cared for in the same way.
The finish changes the look more than you might think – try ordering the same stone in two finishes. Read more in the guide Surface finishes.
Feel the stone at home
Samples in 20×20 cm for SEK 149 each – free shipping when you order three or more. Place them next to the kitchen doors, the wallpaper or the wooden floor and see the stone in your own light.
Order samples