Mount Gambier Limestone, Gambier Stone

Shell Limestone a fossiliferous limestone quarried from the Marte deposits found west of Mount Gambier in South Australia. It is a sedimentary rock formed from aqueous deposits composed largely of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different crystal forms of calcium carbonate (CaCO3 ). The Shell limestone is predominately light in colour but can range into deeper tones of cream to yellow or biscuit color. The stone originated from extensive colonies of lace coral that flourished on an open-marine shelf in shallow calm warm waters. It has been estimated to have formed over 30 million years ago and its composition consists of bryozoa, foraminifea and echinoid spines and plates. It has a dense consistent texture with shelly matter evident in its surface.

Yorke Peninsula Limestone

Oyster Limestone comes from a recently re-opened historical stone quarry located at Coobowie near Edithburgh on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia. Oyster limestone is a fine-grained, light grey to taupe color, flat-lying, fossiliferous stone. Its age has been determined to be from the Miocene age (15-20 Ma) and is correlated with the Port Willunga Formation. The component of visible shelly material is variable. Stone dug from a nearby well around the 1890s showed no signs of fretting and had developed surface hardness. The department of mines conducted tests of the limestone for suitability as building stone during the 1950s and the performance of the blocks used in local buildings around this time show no visible signs of fretting or decay. Contemporary geotechnical testing reveals the limestone to compare favourably to Gambier (shell) limestone and Western Australian limestone (Cream/ Biscuit).

(courtesy Limestone Australia)

FAQ

Can the Limestone be kept outdoors?

Yes. Limestone is used to construct and clad buildings. It has been known to last hundreds of years.

Does Limestone need sealing?

Sealing limestone helps to strengthen the stone as well as make it easier to keep clean over time. All sculptures are sealed before delivery.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. As each piece is unique in shape and weight and requires specialty packaging, a price can only be supplied on request.

Can previously sold pieces be re-made?

Yes. I am happy to discuss remaking a piece that has previously been sold. While I can replicate quite accurately, I like to leave room for the natural evolution of each form. I also like to understand the unique context into which each piece will be placed to ensure a tailored size and response.

Can the pieces be viewed currently?

A small range can be viewed at Collective Furniture 479 Malvern rd South Yarra. Additional images of each piece can also be supplied on request. Please contact me with any enquiries.

Do offer other materials?

Yes. I have the ability to offer finished pieces in a range of materials such as bronze, concrete, resin or marble. Pricing will vary considerably for each commission.

Do you work in a larger scale?

Yes. All the pieces can be offered at varying scales. Pricing can rise exponentially with scale due to material cost, logistics and the specialised machinery required. Please explore the ‘COMMISSIONS’ tab to see some previous examples of large scale work.