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Pioneering the Crystalline Silica-Free Revolution

02/05/2024
Caesarstone

The end of an era in engineered stone brings with it the exciting prospect of brand-new surfaces for the home, ones that are sustainable and free of crystalline silica.

Leading the way in sustainable mineral surfaces, we are proud to announce the launch of a revolutionary new surface – Mineral™ Crystalline Silica-Free – a collection of 33 mineral surfaces created from a unique mix of minerals and containing a minimum of 80% recycled materials (such as glass). These surfaces contain no crystalline silica. The game-changer is the fact that this Mineral™ range looks and performs exactly like the surfaces it is replacing – offering exceptional resistance to heat, stains and scratches – and is the only surface of its kind to carry a lifetime warranty.

As a pioneer and leader of the global benchtop industry for more than 35 years, at Caesarstone® we are once again at the forefront of technological innovation with the early release of 20 new Mineral™ Crystalline Silica-Free surfaces in the first half of this year (2024), and the remainder to follow in the second half. 

With Caesarstone Mineral™ Crystalline Silica-Free, we retained all the most popular colours and designs of our original engineered stone collection, such as the marble-inspired Calacatta Nuvo™, Empira White™ and Statuario Maximus™. Concrete designs such as Fresh Concrete™ and Raw Concrete™ will also be among the first batch of designs to be released. In fact, there is no visible difference between the surfaces in this new Crystalline Silica-Free range and our original engineered stone collection – the only difference is the complete absence of crystalline silica.

Modern minimalistic industrial style kitchen featuring caesarstone marble inspired grey benchtop and island and wooden cabinetry.
Kitchen designed by Studio Minosa featuring Caesarstone Mineral Crystalline Silica-free Statuario Maximus™.

The new Mineral™ Crystalline Silica-Free collection will be produced in Grande size slabs – 3240 x 1640 x 20mm – to maximise the expanse of joint-free surface achievable.

Each Mineral™ Crystalline Silica-Free surface is produced with the utmost attention to sustainable practices.  The surfaces, which will never require sealing, are both non-porous and non-toxic, with extensive independent testing certifying the absence of crystalline silica*. Caesarstone benchtops are guaranteed to be safe to use in the home, including when the product is being installed.  These benchtops also pose no risk during the fabrication process, provided the necessary safety measures are adhered to.

*May contain traces of crystalline silica up to 1%.

FAQs

What materials make up Caesarstone?

Caesarstone is made from a blend of natural minerals and advanced materials, designed to capture the beauty of stone with the strength of modern technology. Our Caesarstone ICON surfaces combine high-quality minerals such as recycled glass and crystalline silica-free materials*, fused together under intense heat and pressure to form a dense, non-porous slab.
This mineral composition delivers remarkable durability — resistant to scratches, stains, and heat — while maintaining a smooth, refined finish that feels timeless. The move to advanced mineral surfaces reflects Caesarstone’s ongoing commitment to safer, more sustainable production, without compromising performance or design. Each slab has up to 80% recycled glass in the composition, every slab embodies decades of craftsmanship and innovation, offering the natural authenticity of stone with the reliability of engineered precision. It’s a material built to last a lifetime — one that stands as a symbol of quality, trust, and enduring Australian design.
 
*Formulated without crystalline silica; however, may contain traces of up to 1%.

Why has Caesarstone been banned or restricted in some regions?

Caesarstone the brand has not been banned or restricted. Some regions have introduced restrictions or bans on certain engineered stone products in general due to concerns around worker safety during fabrication. Traditional engineered stone often contained high levels of crystalline silica, a natural mineral that, when cut or ground without proper safety controls, can release fine dust particles that can be harmful to human health if inhaled.
Caesarstone has taken significant steps to address these concerns through years of research and development. Our newest generation of advanced mineral surfaces ICON is crystalline silica-free*, reflecting a deep commitment to health, safety, and environmental responsibility. These innovative materials maintain the same strength, beauty, and performance that define Caesarstone, while removing the risks associated with crystalline silica.
The shift marks an important evolution in surface manufacturing. Caesarstone continues to lead the industry with safer, more sustainable solutions — ensuring that the future of design remains both beautiful and responsible.

*Formulated without crystalline silica; however, may contain traces of up to 1%.
 

What health risks are associated with Caesarstone fabrication?

Health risks linked to the fabrication of all engineered stone products with high crystalline silica content are typically associated with older generations of engineered stone that a high concentration of crystalline silica. When materials with high levels of crystalline silica are cut, ground, or polished without adequate safety measures, they can release fine respirable dust. Prolonged exposure to this dust may lead to serious lung conditions such as silicosis, which is caused by inhaling silica particles over time.
 
Caesarstone recognises the importance of protecting workers and has had strict safety protocols in place since 1996 to make sure those who fabricate engineered stone products are provided with important safety information and guidelines to ensure their safety.
In 2024 we began production of advanced mineral surfaces that are crystalline silica-free*, removing the hazard at its source. This innovation reflects a deep commitment to creating a safer industry and protecting the wellbeing of stonemasons and fabricators.
 
In addition to material innovation, Caesarstone supports responsible fabrication practices — and has proudly developed our Master of Stone online health and safety training program designed to inform and educate fabricators worldwide. including dust suppression systems, proper ventilation, and the use of personal protective equipment — to ensure every surface is crafted with safety and care.
 

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