Ireland · Limestone
also known as Kilkenny Black, Irish Black Marble, Black Marble of Kilkenny, Fossil Black
Historically known as "Kilkenny Marble" by Irish craftsmen, this is technically a dense dark limestone packed with Carboniferous fossil shells that reveal themselves as white fossils on a polished black-grey surface. Quarried for centuries in County Kilkenny, it was the stone of choice for Georgian fireplaces, church altars, and civic buildings across Ireland. Today it is valued for its heritage character, dramatic contrast, and Irish provenance.
Type-level physical facts shown. Per-lot lab values (absorption, flexural strength) confirmed at quotation.
In historical Irish trade it was marketed as "Kilkenny Marble" because it takes a fine polish like marble, a common commercial convention with dense limestones. Geologically it is a Carboniferous limestone. Architects and conservators now use both terms.
Not recommended for harsh exterior exposure. Dense polished limestone can be sensitive to acid rain and freeze-thaw cycles. It is best reserved for protected interior surfaces: floors, feature walls, fireplaces.