We look towards Sustainability

We have introduced new self-propelled machines in the quarry, some of which are electric, all equipped with the latest generation of filters.

In order to better satisfy our customers and reduce environmental impact, we use numerically controlled machinery in the laboratory that guarantees extraordinary results, low energy consumption, and less material waste.

By cutting the marble with precision, the excess material becomes easily reusable.

A recent and very interesting example is the reuse of Cristallina marble excess from the production of marble columns (see a project of a Private Villa) for the current exhibition of the famous Mexican artist Jose Dàvila at the Centro Internazionale di Scultura (CIS) in Peccia.

Cristallina celebrates 75 years… with many surprises!

1946

In 1946, dr. Antonio Vedova (Zurich), dr. jur. Peter Halter (Luzern) and Andrea Hinnen (Luzern) founded Cristallina SA. From that year on, they began the extraction of the unique and authentic Swiss marble, Cristallina, from the quarry in Peccia, 1,200 meters above sea level. Initially, the marble was extracted at the foot of the rock face with a jackhammer. The blocks were then split with a wedge and hammer, with holes being drilled in succession every 15 cm.

1947

A year later Cristallina SA introduced helical wire cutting machines. Thanks to these, it was possible to cut larger blocks directly on the rock face without damaging them.

1980

The extraction, carried out until 1980 at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level (m.s.m.) was moved to 1400 m.s.m.. The reason was the increasingly high mining walls and the lack of space for storage due to the incrising amount of surplus material from the cuts.

1987

Starting in 1987, diamond wire cutters were introduced. This method of extraction, which is still used today, allowed for greater flexibility and less physical effort for the workers.

2007

In 2007, a chain saw, that could make a 3.5-meter cut and extract the blocks directly from the rock face, was introduced for the first time.”

Why choose Cristallina marble?

There are at least five good reasons to use Cristallina marble, whether for interior or exterior use.

 

1. Ecological

Cristallina is a natural and therefore eco-friendly product that consists mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). It is one of the most eco-friendly materials with the least environmental impact. Every bit of the processing chain is reusable and, above all, Cristallina marble contains no pollutants.

2. Unique

Time has enhanced the variety and originality of every piece of marble extracted from the Cristallina quarry because each one is different from the other. From a single quarry, it is possible to find 14 different types of marble with different veins and colors. Each piece is unique and, if combined with the others, original and refined results are obtained. This is why Cristallina marble is perfect for chromatic decorations that are always different and unique.

3. Resistant

Cristallina marble is very resistant to the wear and tear of time, weathering and atmospheric agents, and is therefore perfect for both outdoor and indoor use. Being a natural stone, marble is a living material that slightly changes and distinguishes itself over the years while maintaining its beauty.

4. Affordable

Even though it requires an initial investment, the value for money is the winner. Cristallina marble is in fact a very durable material and, as a result, compensates in terms of maintenance. Amortizing the total cost over an average lifespan of thirty years, it is easy to see that this natural stone represents an investment in time. The initial investment is therefore compensated by the low maintenance costs and its long lifespan.

5. Versatile

Cristallina is able to adapt to any type of location and finishing. Cristallina marble can be used to create a multitude of different products, from floors and wall coverings, to gardens and streets, to furniture and sculptures. Thanks to its multitude of different colors and veins, Cristallina marble is perfect for any style and furnishing element.