Where Is Marble Found In Ireland

A wide range of connemara marble gifts are available there.

Where is marble found in ireland. The joyce name was to become synonymous with connemara marble supplying world famous buildings with the ireland s iconic marble. Connemara marble is referred to ireland s gem stone as it is a very distinctive and rare form of marble that can only be found in ireland. It was opened in 1822 by the joyce family. The oldest rocks are metamorphic gneisses which are to be found on inishtrahull several miles off malin head in co.

The most commonly known marble from ireland is connemara however there are also other marble variations to include the ulster white kilkenny black and cork red marbles. Today four countries quarry almost half of the world s marble. Estimated to be over 600 million years old it is the presence of various natural elements in the limestone that gives connemara marble its rich and beautiful colors. Disabled access is also available.

The joyce family owns a connemara marble quarry in recess. Connemara marble is a green veined stone found only in the west of ireland identified as the historical territory of connemara. A large selection of marble gifts such as clocks ashtrays marble eggs cheeseboards paperweights and chess boards are also available. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals most commonly calcite or dolomite marble is typically not foliated although there are exceptions in geology the term marble refers to metamorphosed limestone but its use in stonemasonry more broadly encompasses unmetamorphosed limestone.

We own and operate the oldest marble quarry which was first opened in the 19th century and visited in 1903 by king edward vii and queen alexandra during the royal tour of connemara. Rare and beautiful connemara marble is found exclusively along ireland s rugged wild atlantic coast. Connemara marble is over 900 million years old and is unique to ireland. One of the finest examples of connemara marble in ireland forms the stunning floor of galway.

The geological map of ireland displays a wide variety of rock types which have originated at different periods of geological time. However many other countries produce marble too. Donegal and elsewhere in the north west. Their factory is based in the village on the n59 between clifden and galway where joyce s craft shop and art gallery can also be found right across the road from the connemara giant monument.

Italy china india and spain. This irish marble is as unique as the spectacular irish landscape it is found in with green of almost every hue in arresting layers and patterns. Marble is found around the world making it a symbol of luxury in so many cultures. Marble is commonly used for sculpture and as a building material.