Sardinian granitoids: 4000 years of geoheritage and dimension stones. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Careddu, Nicola; Cuccuru, Stefano; Grillo, Silvana Maria
• Is Part Of: Resources policy. Volume 74(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Granite -- Sardinia -- Heritage stone -- Dimension stone -- Market; Mines and mineral resources -- Periodicals; Ressources minérales -- Périodiques; Ressources naturelles -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Environnement -- Politique gouvernementale -- Périodiques; 333.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2021.102339
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4207

Abstract

Abstract: The article presents a review of Sardinian granite from the point of view of its use during different historical periods; more specifically, the historical significance of Sardinian building stones is extended to be included as a substantial component of geoheritage. Archaeology shows that this stone has been used since prehistoric times for the construction of a wide range of buildings and artifacts. The Romans made frequent use of it and transported it across the Tyrrhenian sea; in the Middle Ages, castles and churches were built and many buildings were constructed in the pre-industrial era. The industrial age made Sardinian granite known throughout the world. After a geological overview, the article dwells on the differences between the various facies of granite and the use of stone in the various historical periods. A state-of-the-art analysis of quarrying, stone-processing and current market positioning is also given. Finally, the reasons why the area of Sardinia, where granites are quarried, can be nominated as a Global Heritage Stone Province are explained. Highlights: Sardinian granites have been used since protohistory to the present days. Thanks to modern architecture, they have been used all over the world. Historical significance is included as a substantial component of geoheritage. The area where ornamental granites are quarried could be recognised as a GHSP.