According to The Times of India (TOI), Makrana marble has achieved the prestigious honour of being recognised as a Global Heritage Stone Resource by the International Union of Geological Science. This significant designation symbolises the international acknowledgment of Makrana marble due to its widespread use worldwide. The Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic structures featuring Makrana marble, serves as a testament to the material’s intricate craftsmanship and finesse. But why was Makrana chosen over other materials for such a monumental project?
The massive white marble used in the construction of the Taj Mahal was sourced from Makrana, a location situated four hundred kilometres southwest of Jaipur. To transport the marble to the Taj Mahal’s construction site, stonecutters had to rent trolleys and use precisely cut logs. In the region around Agra, where the Taj Mahal is located, there was an abundance of red brick material used in various architectural structures of that era, including the Humayun Tomb and the Red Fort. So, why did the builders opt for Makrana marble, especially in a time when cranes and trucks did not exist?
The answer lies in the unparalleled beauty and timelessness of Makrana marble. The construction of the Taj Mahal was a historic event that required an equally enduring material to withstand the test of time and immortalise the story of love it represents.
The Taj Mahal is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its exceptional craftsmanship and architectural planning. Even in the face of a natural calamity, the minarets of the Taj Mahal were designed to collapse away from the main structure, ensuring the tomb’s protection. It stands as a symbol of forward-thinking and precision in architecture that was far ahead of its time. Makrana marble enhances the quality and durability of the design, aligning with the original intentions of the structure. Even in adverse conditions, including waterlogged areas, the Taj Mahal has retained its glory for over 390 years, a testament to the resilience of Makrana marble.
Celebrating the Legacy of White in Architecture
Architecture is a deeply personal experience, and our surroundings significantly impact our psychology, whether in our homes or workplaces. In such scenarios, we need spaces and materials that stand the test of time. From historical eras to the modern age, architecture has always aimed to create designs that remain timeless.
Colors may come and go, but white is eternal.
Stonex’s range of white marbles introduces endless possibilities in design to create architecture and spaces that are timeless, just like the ethereal Makrana marble. It pays tribute to the historic heritage and symbolism of using white to create contemporary architecture that respects the past.
White is often perceived as an expensive and unattainable choice, but with Stonex’s white marble, that is not the case. Honouring the monumental legacy of Makrana, Stonex’s white marbles pay homage to precision, intricate detailing, and rich aesthetics from the heritage era.
Statuario: A Glimpse into the Timeless Future of White
Suitable for all types of decor, Statuario is one of the finest marbles available. Found in the mountain quarries of Italy, this marble is in high demand and has limited availability. What makes Statuario unique are its minimal veins and undertones, which give it an aesthetic appeal. Combining opulent luxury with timelessness, Statuario is the modern alternative to Makrana marble.
Its versatile design allows it to be used both indoors and outdoors. Statuario has a sheen and transparency with a compact structure. Throughout history, Statuario has been used to carve sculptures from a single block. Many of Michelangelo’s and Antonio Canova’s works are a testament to Statuario’s impeccable usage.
Today, this marble has proven to be the ideal replacement for Makrana marble to convey grandeur and magnificence. It can be used in various spaces, including large tile formats, book-matched wall panels, backsplashes, and countertops for kitchens. Statuario marble is available in a wide range of textures and finishes, making it an affordable choice for creating timeless beauty.