The use of decorative stone for interior decoration allows you to decorate a house or apartment in an original way. Such natural material successfully merges into various interior solutions, and becomes the highlight that the owners of the home are trying to reproduce. A stone of artificial origin gives a decorative effect no worse than its wild counterpart.

Properties of decorative stone

For interior decoration, you can use both artificial stone and natural mineral, it's all about the price and the wishes of the customer. Each of these types is endowed with a number of properties that must be considered when choosing products. To better understand what a decorative stone for interior decoration is like, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with its characteristics and study the types of this material.

The indisputable advantage of a mineral with natural origin is its durability, especially since such wall cladding is not subject to external negative factors inside an apartment or house. It is not affected by precipitation and ultraviolet, thanks to which the stone can give its best properties - the ability to thermal insulation and an unsurpassed appearance. It so happened that the decorative elements of the walls, made with such a cladding, have served and continue to serve as a sign of high financial prosperity, so this also affects its popularity.

Oddly enough, but the high strength of the mineral is both its advantage and disadvantage, since its processing is significantly difficult. Again, the pattern on the surface of this decor can be different, and this is not to everyone's liking. And the most important disadvantage, which, probably, will always distinguish a wild mineral is its exorbitant price, which is not accessible to everyone.

The price of a stone produced under artificial conditions is much lower than that of the previous version. A gypsum or cement component makes it much lighter, which can significantly reduce the load on the structure of the house and make it easier to glue such material. Thanks to this property, delivery and unloading becomes easier, which means that the cost of the material is lower. Artificial stone deservedly leads the market of decorative building products, as it is endowed with unsurpassed qualities:

• ease of installation. It is laid on a special glue in the same way as ceramic tiles, but there is no need to carefully adjust each element, and some randomness only adds charm to the room;
• a huge selection of colors and textures that mimic a natural mineral. There is a wide field for design thought;
• the coating can be repaired and restored;
• strength and durability can compete with similar qualities of natural cladding;
• Optimal hydrophobic properties make cleaning easy and convenient.

There are practically no negative qualities here, except that some types of artificial coating are subject to abrasion during mechanical stress, sometimes hydrophobic treatment is indispensable and the cost may be higher than for more traditional types of wall finishing materials (wallpaper, ceramic tiles).

The use of artificial stone for interior wall cladding

There are no strict restrictions on the use of stone in the interior, but you need to be able to stop in time so as not to overload the living space of a house or apartment with this bright and textured material. Decorating corners, arched and doorways with it is quite justified, since here we have not only an artistic effect, but also excellent protection of vulnerabilities from mechanical damage. This technique will help highlight some interior elements and create an advantageous accent on them. You can lay gypsum or any other decor on glue both over the entire selected area, and in the form of small inserts.

It is customary to glue artificial flexible stone or gypsum products in niches or on shelves. When decorating fireplaces, along with these types of cladding, ceramic decorative stone-like tiles for interior decoration can be used.

Due to the environmental friendliness of the artificial decor, it can be glued in the bedrooms at the head, which looks very original. In the living rooms, TVs are hung on the lined surfaces of the walls, and the stone does not have to have a linear layout - it can be arranged randomly.

Radius lining of niches and ceilings with the advent of a new product on the construction market, such as flexible stone, is now much easier due to the pliability of the material. In general, a flexible artificial mineral deserves special attention, and we will definitely tell you more about it.

Facing stone: types and individual characteristics

On the construction market, there are all possible varieties of decorative facing stone, which in most cases are mounted on glue. Most often, our compatriots prefer gypsum products, therefore, we will begin our review with them, besides, gypsum material, like flexible stone, has a number of advantages over similar sheathing for interior walls, which means that it deserves special attention.

Gypsum lining

Gypsum tiles very naturally imitate real stone

The gypsum base of the material allows it to be widely used. It has long and reliably been the leader among similar decor designed for indoor use. The increased demand for gypsum is due to its low weight and aesthetic data, moreover, the price of such material is quite democratic. Gypsum products have a porous structure, so they absorb moisture. To prevent the destruction of the material due to moisture, it should be treated with special varnishes and impregnations. Incombustibility, ease of installation on glue, resistance to sharp fluctuations in temperature - all this has a positive effect on the choice of buyers. In appearance, gypsum stone, like its flexible counterpart, is similar to sandstone.

concrete products

Concrete tiles are characterized by a monotone color, available in a variety of colors

This material includes sand, hardeners, plasticizers, and coloring pigments. As additives, pumice, ceramic dust, expanded clay granules can be included here. Concrete-based stone is versatile, so it can be glued to any wall surface.

Porcelain stoneware

Porcelain tiles have an endless variety of textures and textures.

The main ingredients of porcelain stoneware allow it to withstand increased loads. Ceramic cladding with granite strength consists of several grades of clay, mineral fillers, feldspar and pigment dyes. In the process of pressing and further firing, porcelain stoneware acquires the ability to withstand high temperatures and moisture, as well as significant mechanical stress. In appearance, porcelain stoneware looks like colored glass or a well-polished mineral. In order not to scratch the glossy surface of this cladding, it is better to refrain from abrasive cleaning agents.

Agglomerates

The agglomerate has a fine spotted structure, great for a strict style

This class of facing materials is characterized by excellent strength characteristics, as they are based on marble and granite chips. Manufacturers also include limestone, quartz sand and various pigments in the composition of agglomerates. They are mounted with glue on a pre-prepared surface, in which they are similar to more common gypsum products.

acrylic material

Acrylic stone can be cast in absolutely any shape

Acrylic stone can be laid on the surface of internal walls, which has a number of advantageous properties:

• resistance to mechanical damage;
• does not absorb moisture;
• does not attract dirt and dust;
• easy to care for;
• easy to glue on the surface;
• light weight;
• ecological purity.

Quartzite

Quartz window sill

As well as similar gypsum products, it can be laid in rooms with any purpose. The structure of such a stone is heavy-duty, and the material itself serves for a very long time without losing its original appearance. Often it can be found in the form of window sills and countertops. Quartz stone is easily processed with diamond discs.

Flexible decorative stone

“Flexible stone” can be laid even on round surfaces

It is hard to imagine that a stone can be flexible in its structure, but modern technologies never cease to amaze us. Such a flexible material is produced at the site of sandstone mining, for which the natural mineral is cut off with the thinnest layer so that its unique pattern remains. The thin section is then sanded to a smooth glossy surface. The basis on which it is customary to glue the cut material is durable textile with acrylic plasticizers applied to its surface.

Over time, the textile is removed, and the sandstone cut and acrylic glue on its back are dried in the sun under the open sky. During the manufacturing process, as you understand, small particles of a natural mineral solidify and leave an unchanged pattern and texture. Flexible stone can be glued to any surface due to its pliability. It is indispensable where you need to process round shapes, make a smooth transition from one element to another. This is an excellent solution for those who plan to glue the material in the corners without cutting it. The new flexible facing material is not cheap, but its possibilities are not limited by anything.

Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range

It is probably difficult to find a more familiar wall cladding than stone-look tiles for interior decoration. Everyone who has even a little experience with repair work knows that the products are mounted on a special tile adhesive, have an attractive appearance and have a huge selection. On sale you can find products of any price category that will give the surface of the walls both moisture protection and a decorative effect. Such wall cladding will serve its owners for many years, provided that the adhesive is chosen correctly and the laying work is carried out correctly.

Recently, there has been a lot of controversy about the disadvantages and advantages of synthetic stones. Some say they are worth nothing, others say they are new opportunities for jewelers and buyers.

We decided to dot the i’s and figure out what synthetic inserts really are.

Analogue or imitation?

First of all, let's define concepts.

A synthesized gemstone is an absolute analogue of a natural mineral, but created in a laboratory. In its structure, physical and chemical properties, it is completely identical to natural. Imitation is called a material that repeats only the external characteristics of the stone, but not its composition and properties.

Synthesized stones are also called "artificially grown" because the process of their creation mimics the growth of minerals in natural conditions. However, thanks to the use of modern technologies and developments, the birth and growth of a stone in the laboratory is much faster. This difference can be compared to how rare flowers grow in the wild, and how they grow in a greenhouse, where all the necessary conditions are created for the inflorescences to turn out to be large, bright, and flowering to last as long as possible.

Creating ideal conditions for the growth of minerals allows specialists to influence this process, improving certain characteristics of the stone. Therefore, samples grown in artificial conditions are identical to natural minerals of the highest quality.

Currently, there are centers for the production of synthetic stones in many countries of the world, including Russia.

What are synthetic stones used for?

Firstly, synthetic stones can significantly reduce the cost of jewelry with "precious" inserts. So, for example, synthetic ruby ​​and sapphire corundum and hydrothermal emerald become analogues of ruby, sapphire and emerald in jewelry. Thanks to this, any woman will be able to buy jewelry with large inserts corresponding to the highest quality precious stones.

Currently, there are strict legal regulations that determine how to designate and name jewelry stones. In accordance with them, the word "synthetic" must be indicated on the tag for a product with similar inserts.

Secondly, synthesizing makes it possible to achieve the perfection of the stone: maximum purity, color saturation, high optical properties. Natural stones are not always perfect. And if such samples are found, only a few can afford jewelry with them.

Thirdly, the use of synthetic inserts in jewelry production makes it possible to replace natural stones from depleted deposits. So, for example, in Soviet times, alexandrite was considered "not of industrial interest", as a result of which the only mine in the Urals was quickly worked out and closed. In this regard, since 1980, alexandrites have been grown artificially.

man-made stones

Separately, it is worth mentioning synthetic inserts, which are not considered analogues of natural stones, but are initially the result of the development of scientists. These include cubic zirkonia, Swarovski crystals, glass-ceramics and sapphire glass.

In recent years, glass-ceramic has been increasingly used in jewelry production. This is a new material, which is obtained by glass crystallization, due to which glass-ceramic glass has higher physical and chemical properties compared to glass. Transparency and a wide range of colors make it possible to use glass-ceramics as analogues of various, including rare, stones.

Another unusual jewelry material is sapphire glass. Specialists know it as single-crystal aluminum and use it in the manufacture of watches. In its structure, this material is similar to sapphires obtained by synthesis. It has a high degree of transparency, wear resistance, does not become cloudy and does not scratch.

Synthetic inserts are used in various product models. They are more durable, resistant to sunlight, high temperatures and acids.

Decorative rock- This is a type of facing tile with a texture that imitates natural stone. This material is great for finishing interior and exterior work. Decorative stone is very popular, although it appeared quite recently. It is made in different colors and textures.

There are the following types of decorative (artificial) stones:

• from plaster;
• from quartz;
• from acrylic;
• based on concrete;
• porcelain stoneware.

Decoration with decorative stone.

Finishing with decorative stone- this is one of the most popular ways to make housing stylish and comfortable. Decorative finishing gives any room a unique and imposing look. Suitable for any interior and any room, including the bath and shower.

Advantages of finishing with decorative stone:

• stability in operation;
• practicality and ease of care;
• dirt-repellent, dust-repellent and grease-repellent properties;
• fungus and mold do not appear on the tile;
• cheaper and lighter than natural stone;
• absolute strength due to homogeneous structure;
• the tile has an exact geometric figure and one side is absolutely smooth, which allows you to create even masonry without much effort;
• easy processing and sawing;
• resistance to temperature difference;
• suitable for any surface: wood, brick, concrete, etc.;
• visually there is no difference from natural stone;
• in case of damage, it is easily restored or replaced;
• high environmental friendliness, does not contain hazardous substances.

The composition and properties of various decorative stones are different. Therefore, before choosing the right material for finishing the room, you need to familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics.

This is a facing artificial stone. Made from high strength gypsum and water. The composition may include sand, modifier, surfactant solution, pigments. Due to its high quality, it was called "gypsum polymer stone".

Gypsum decorative stone has the following properties:

• good air permeability;
• a light weight;
• strength;
• environmental friendliness;
• easy processing; heat and sound insulation;
• fire resistance;
• maintaining the required humidity.

It is intended for finishing of internal and external walls. Due to its environmental friendliness and safety, it is suitable for any residential premises: bedroom, kitchen, living room, hallway.

Light weight allows you to make lining even on thin interior partitions. And the ease of processing and cutting of the material contributes to the invention of various architectural forms.

Below are some more popular decorative stones.

Decorative quartz stone. This is an artificial stone, which includes natural quartz mineral, high-quality polyester resin, pigments. This is a liquid stone of hot curing. The most durable of all artificial stones.

Quartz decorative stone properties:

• resistance to temperature changes;
• strength and durability;
• antibacterial, an obstacle to the formation of mold and fungus, even at high humidity;
• ease of care.

Application of decorative quartz stone:

• facing both internal and external walls, including in the bathroom and shower;
• lining of fireplaces, rustic stoves, pools;
• facing of countertops for kitchen and bathroom, sinks;
• facing steps;
• production of coffee tables, etc.

Thanks to its qualities, decorative rock made of quartz is used not only in residential premises, but also in public ones, for example, in restaurants, in swimming pools, in saunas.

Decorative rock from acrylic - an artificial stone, consisting of acrylic resins methyl methacrylate and polymethyl methacrylate, aluminum hydroxide, natural mineral fillers and pigments.

Acrylic decorative stone properties:

• long service life, durability;
• hygiene;
• antibacterial;
• easy to grind;
• invisibility of adhesive seams;
• easy to repair

Application of acrylic decorative stone:

• medical institutions;
• catering places;
• Living spaces;
• bathroom cladding;
• production of countertops for the kitchen;
• manufacture of furniture items.

Decorative rock based on concrete. The composition contains: binder Portland cement, purified quarry sand, water, pigment dyes. You can create an analogue of any natural stone. It is considered the most common.

Properties of decorative stone based on concrete:

• frost resistance;
• high strength;
• color fastness;
• durability;
• low moisture absorption;
• resistance to temperature changes.

Decorative rock based on concrete is used for the following purposes:

• finishing of internal and external walls, as well as any surfaces;
• production of paving slabs;
• production of decorative elements: borders, cornices, plinths, etc.;
• restoration of buildings, monuments

Porcelain tile. In its composition this decorative stone includes various mixtures of ground rocks, high quality clay and natural mineral dyes.

Technical characteristics of porcelain stoneware:

• moisture resistance;
• resistance to external influences;
• wear resistance;
• high strength to pressure on the surface;
• temperature resistance;
• Unlike natural granite, it does not emit radiation.

Where to use porcelain stoneware:

• premises with high traffic;
• finishing kitchen, bathroom, shower;
• facade cladding;
• for a "warm" floor in premises.

So, decorative artificial stone- this is the general name for building finishing materials that imitate natural stones of various colors and textures. Unlike natural analogues, they have a great advantage in price, processing and application.

Stone- one of the first building materials. Ancestors used this building material for the construction of houses, castles, defensive structures. Natural and artificial stone has a high level of strength, it is resistant to the negative effects of external factors, which ensured the service life of stone buildings for 20-30 years. Designers began to use in interior artificial stone as a decorative element not so long ago. Foto projects implemented by them are presented in large numbers on thematic sites on the Internet. This finishing material is very popular, due to the variety of species and affordable prices.

Decorative stone: properties and methods of use

Artificial stone began to be used in construction and interior decoration about 10 years ago. This was facilitated by its low cost and ease of use. The result of working with stone has always been excellent, and customers were satisfied. Facing using decorative stone is resistant to the negative effects of sudden changes in temperature and high humidity, it will not crack even after 10 years. Due to its wear resistance, durability is achieved, which also depends on the quality of the surface cladding. Therefore, you should invite a professional builder with experience in the field of repair to carry out the finishing and cladding. By paying him more, you will be sure of the final result and operational life of 10-20 years.

Ease of maintenance- Another advantage of artificial stone. This finishing material does not require special care. To do this, the surface of the finishing material is covered with special agents with water-repellent properties and washed periodically. Laying of a decorative stone is made on a surface of all types of complexity.

The number of color variations of this finishing material increases every year, so everyone can choose the best solution for themselves to create a cozy atmosphere in the house and a harmonious interior. Stone imitation can be varied, have a bumpy surface or look like a brick. Also on sale is a stone with shells and pieces of coral. Fans of modern interiors should pay attention to the material with the lunar surface and applied craters.

The composition of artificial stone is completely natural:

• cement;
• pumice,
• expanded clay;
• perlite;
• natural dyes.

This made the material environmentally friendly and harmless, it can even be used in children's rooms and bedrooms. It does not cause allergic reactions and is safe for children's health.

The described characteristics have only high-quality material. Therefore, you should take a responsible approach to the selection process and not save money by buying the cheapest stone.

Advantages of using artificial stone in the interior

Finishing with decorative stone will delight you for a couple of decades, without the need for its restoration and replacement of elements. The main thing is proper care and high-quality styling. Its weight is less than natural, making transport and installation a simple and quick process. To carry out the work, you will need to buy a special glue that will ensure reliable adhesion of the material to the surface, durability. Preparing the surface for fixing the stone does not require complex preparation, it will be enough to apply a layer of primer, putty and use high-quality glue.

The following types of artificial stone are on sale:

• marble. Plates have a smooth surface, have been polished. It can be black, green, white, beige tones, which is due to its composition;
• limestone. The oldest of building materials. It can be seen in the architectural monuments of Egypt and Russia. It is valuable for excellent wear resistance, warm colors, aesthetics;
• granite. His drawing is “grainy”, and the shades are gray, black, color;
• brick.

It is known that radiation is present in natural stones, and its level is even higher in granite. Artificial materials do not have such a drawback, they are completely environmentally friendly and will not harm human health.

Where is artificial stone used

Decorative stone looks great in all areas of a country cottage and city apartment. The main thing is to correctly determine the style of design and buy material confirmed by quality certificates.

Kitchen- a great room to use this style of decoration. Here we spend several hours every day cooking and family dinners. The kitchen should be functional and aesthetic, which can be easily achieved with the help of decorative stone. It is used for finishing the "apron", walls, floors. This material is harmoniously combined with natural wood, glass, metal.

You can also make a durable countertop from artificial granite. It will be aesthetic and durable, withstanding even serious loads. You can place a sink in it and not worry about the negative effects of moisture on the surface.

Window sills made of this material look aesthetically pleasing and fit into any design solution. They are durable and reliable, will last 10-20 years, retaining their original appearance.

Artificial stone will organically fit into living room interior. To do this, it is important to correctly determine its color, using only one of the walls. There are many variations of use, each of them has its own characteristics and will allow you to create comfort in the house. Cladding of the entire wall, individual columns and shelves, fragmented placement: the choice depends on the designer's project and your wishes.

Finishing with a decorative stone is used for zoning a room, highlighting a certain zone. The result is always excellent with minimal financial costs. The traditional use is to decorate a fireplace in a country cottage. This material is heat resistant, lightweight and aesthetic.

Decorating the hallway with stone will appeal to fans of functional solutions and environmental friendliness. The material will not deteriorate its appearance under the influence of dirt and moisture, so the use in the hallway is justified. This finish will save you from daily cleaning and the need for cosmetic repairs every year. The stone requires minimal maintenance and will last 10-20 years.

Most families did balcony and loggia in their city apartments with full-fledged premises. A nursery, a gym, a recreation area are popular options for reworking these premises. To give them an aesthetic appearance and functionality, it is worth using an artificial stone for finishing surfaces and zoning rooms. Such a design solution will allow you to equip the loggia, making it more comfortable and cozy. Here you will enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning and relax after a hard day's work in the evening.

Artificial stone is widely used for finishing bathrooms, toilets, bedrooms, children's rooms. The combination of stone with wood and glass will create a cozy interior and a warm homely atmosphere in which it will be pleasant to relax and rejuvenate. It is worth giving preference to delicate pastel colors, using several light sources and other natural materials.

Artificial stone in public spaces

Artificial stone in the interior public premises looks aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. To verify this, you should look at the design examples on photo in the Internet. Bar counters, fireplaces, walls: Each of them is covered with artificial stone. Each entertainment establishment uses one or more of these decorative elements in its interior.

Why? The reason for the popularity of this material:

• functionality;
• durability;
• strength;
• aesthetics;
• it has an affordable price;
• high quality;
• weight 25 kg/sq. m.

Such an interior always looks harmonious and extraordinary, which is what all entertainment establishments in megacities and small towns strive for.

It is worth using stone for finishing office premises, receptions of large companies, steps and stairs in them. Such an interior will be both discreet and luxurious. Such decoration is justified in the interior decoration of premises and cladding of building facades.

The stone is an opportunity change your home and office giving it a special comfort. Designers claim that the interior with artificial stone gives a real feeling of comfort and tranquility. In such a room you always feel comfortable and safe. This is achieved due to the strength and reliability of the material, its durability and aesthetic appearance. But such decor should be abandoned in small apartments and rooms, it will make it visually even smaller. A country cottage, your own house on 2-3 floors or a spacious apartment - here the stone will look harmonious.

Before buying, be sure to check the availability of certificates of quality and conformity by asking them from the seller of the store. Their presence and a certificate confirming the radiation safety of artificial stone is a guarantee of your safety and the quality of the purchased materials.

Decorative rock- light material. The weight of the material is 25 kg / 1 sq. m. The builders will confirm that the walls of the house will withstand such a load and the structure of the house will not be disturbed. Technologies for creating building materials of the 21st century for decoration made it possible to make the weight of the stone 25 kg / sq. m, textured and durable. But entrust the laying to an experienced builder for confidence in the final result and durability of the created interior.

Almost any type of artificial stone is a mixture of mineral filler with natural or synthetic binder. Such materials imitate natural stones and are also used in interior and exterior decoration of houses. Artificial stones are divided according to the composition of the components, the variety of materials, and the production technique. Any artificial stone, regardless of where it will be used, must be strong and durable. If there are visible errors, it is better to bypass this material.

The most used stones are:

Technology for the production of artificial stones

The production of stone based on acrylic, occurs according to the principle of casting.

This material is similar to plastic, but has a mineral base and for this reason it belongs to artificial stones. This material easily takes any shape and any design can be made from it, even with the most non-standard shapes.

• The agglomerate is made using the vibrocompression method in a vacuum space. After that, the stone is sent to the oven for polymerization of the components.
• Cast marble belongs to the category of polymer concrete. Produced using vibrocasting. This material practically does not conduct heat. Doesn't absorb water at all. And the most important plus is the high wear resistance. Cast marble is afraid of a sharp change in temperature.
• Gypsum stone and concrete-based stones can be produced independently and absolutely any size and shape. They are produced by pressing and do not require heat treatment.

Advantages of artificial stone

Almost any type of artificial stone can be produced in the form of thin slabs. When mounted on any surface, this fact allows you to safely use this material. The texture and color can resemble natural stone or have the most unusual, but at the same time uniquely beautiful look. If desired, this material can be produced on site, where it will be used in the future. If you do not want to additionally grind, saw and polish the stone, it can be made perfectly smooth and shiny. Any artificial stone can be connected, built up and at the same time the junction will be invisible.

Tips for choosing artificial stone and its installation

Very thin material glued to a pressed wood base may lose its appearance over time due to swelling of the base, especially when used as a countertop material. Any material must be selected in accordance with the type of use, since the thickness of the material for walls or window sills varies significantly.

Materials used outdoors must also meet the specifications, unless they mimic natural boulders or large irregularly shaped stones. Artificial stone, regardless of the type and production technology, always and everywhere finds its application. In addition, many tend to choose this particular material, since the price of such stones is not as high as that of natural ones.