What Are the Uses of a Saprolite Stone?

Absorption

• Any stone that has become saprolite is porous, more fragile and more difficult to use. A saprolite stone such as weathered granite can be used in areas where absorption is important. If you live in an area that is very wet, such as in Louisiana, the Pacific Northwest or Ireland, any saprolite can be used as a yard decoration. Sunk into the soil, it can absorb moisture, leaving the area a bit drier.

Rough Effects

• Saprolite granite can be used for decorating. It does not make good building material because it is more fragile than stones in their non-weathered state. Porous granite in particular might make an excellent material for home decorations. It has the subtlety of granite but is “rougher” in appearance, meaning that it can provide a more “rustic” look to anything. The more weathered the granite, or any stone, the “rougher” it looks. Due to the increased absorption that comes with most saprolites, especially granite, painting or staining it might be much easier than with more “solid” stones. This depends on the final look you are striving for.

Primitivism

• Any saprolite is a mainstay in primitive aesthetics. The primitive is the “simple” design of folk crafts that use the cheapest and most readily available of materials. Since the primitive approach strives for a rough and unfinished appearance, the more weathered the stone, the better the look. It should never be used in any decorations or crafts that require it to bear weight. Usually, weathered stones are more fragile. Its fragility is one of its most significant problems. Therefore, weathered stone is normally used for aesthetic rather than practical effects.

Clay and Ceramics

• Saprolite can go from a mild weathering to an extreme decomposition -- basically becoming clay. Extremely saprolite stones are required for the ceramic arts. The more weathered a stone, especially granite, the more flexible it becomes. A saprolite that has absorbed much water and is decomposing can be crafted into any shape. Afterward, the project should be heated in a kiln to remove any moisture. Because it is porous, it will hold any paint or stain well.