Knowle Quarry
Exeter Volcanic Quarry
Nestled in the rolling hills of Devon, Exeter Volcanic Quarry is situated on Elston Farm near Copplestone. This historic quarry is home to renowned Exeter Volcanic Stone seen throughout the local architectural landscape. Volcanic stone of this type can be seen in Exeter’s city wall, where it was used both in the Roman period and throughout the Middle Ages. It can also be seen at Exe Bridge (c. 1200), in some of the houses of Cathedral Close, and in some of the houses of the High Street and South Street. The stone has wide uses from restoration to new builds.
What is Exeter Volcanic Stone?
Exeter Volcanic is a slow cooled lava, it has a dense crystalline structure allowing it to be cut and shaped easily. The stone tends to appear rhombic in its quarried form. The colours vary from dark grey through purples to red. It contains mica giving it a sparkle when cut. It can be vesicular (have cavities), which can be a characteristic of igneous rocks.
Exeter Volcanic stone does not deteriorate when exposed to the weather unlike sandstones and calcareous stones. It does slowly change its colour, to reds and dark greys, that are elegant and attractive. Planners frequently specify local stone for new builds, this will help builders access a local stone. It is also suited to drystone walling, garden features and rockeries, as well as sculpting.
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