Limestone

Used in almost every kind of flooring, with the harder limestones ideal for bathrooms.

A sedimentary rock made largely of calcium carbonate, limestone is generally white to cream, unless stained yellow or brown by iron oxides, or bluish to black by organic matter. The harder stones give texture and finish to shower cubicles, bath surrounds and vanity tops.

Limestones range from soft to very hard, so the right one depends on where it's going: the harder stones suit kitchen floors and entrance halls, while softer ones work well in bathrooms and less heavily used rooms. It is usually honed or tumbled rather than polished, for the calm, natural look limestone is known for.