In 1980 the tuscan regional government published "i marmi apuani", the first and only publication about the stone materials quarried in the apuo-versilian district. This included photographs and technical information sheets based on university laboratory tests to define their physical and mechanical properties and most appropriate uses.
For 29 years now this exceptional collection of technical information has been used by geologists, researchers, architects, building experts and people working in the industry alike.
It has done a commendable service and has passed the test of time guaranteeing the utmost reliability through the many transformations and changes in the industry.
Today, the tuscan regional government, together With the ministry for economic development, the italian trade commission,toscana promozione and the Internazionale Marmi E Macchine (IMM) carrara spa, it has decided to channel its efforts into following up the success of 29 years ago.
Firstly, the quarry conditions have made it necessary to update the book. The quarry fronts have changed, new quarrying techniques and technology have been introduced and the actual physical/mechanical properties of the materials have changed as well as their ornamental appearance.
Secondly, regulations and standards have also changed, making it necessary to update the book. For example, all products on the Eu markets now have to bear the CE marking created to provide a guarantee to consumers and ensure a more open relationship between suppliers and buyers.
It is a sign that demonstrates the urgent need for companies to alter the Way they operate, now and in the future. This is because companies are now required to give the "identity" of the products they place on the markets, starting from the raw materials.
The tuscan regional government decided to conduct a completely new analysis of the raw materials that are subject to technical tests according to the new european standards (EN-uni). In this Way, whatever the end use of the blocks may be (in italy and abroad), the technical information produced by the tests Will enable processing companies to complete a product's identity so that it May then circulate Without running the Risk of complaints.
The Job of the tuscan regional government finishes here. Beyond this point it is the companies that come into play. we have No doubt, however, that the new procedures Will soon be up and running and that companies Will be able to meet the new market requirements, promptly and accurately as they always have done.
Ambrogio Brenna
Minister for crafts, sme's, industry, innovation, promotion and internationalization of the productive system and cooperation
As is well known, competition today has become very fierce and the materials available on the markets have very attractive colours and patterns and in many cases come with complete and above all up-to-date technical information.
To date the tuscan marble varieties have competed on the strength of their history. This is certainly an advantage but no longer enough of a unique selling point to attract customers.
The urgency to find a solution led to the creation of this new catalogue that has now been published thanks to the contribution of all those who have shown a keen interest in it. Trade associations, a large network of companies and local authorities immediately offered their help and the imm was called upon by toscana promozione to coordinate the project. Their collective efforts were invaluable in its completion.
we sincerely hope we have met the industry expectations.
The associations were all represented in a special technical committee set up to discuss the content of the publication and excellent working relations prevailed throughout the project.
It was an opportunity not to be missed and we are sure that due consideration has been taken of the companies' needs without neglecting the scientific content, in particular geology. The end result has further increased our desire to make the printed tool even more efficient and productive. The creation of a special site will most definitely add value to the publication by making it a complete multi-media tool.
The first to benefit from it will be the architects, the prime target.
The unique colours, veins and patterns of tuscan marble varieties that nature has so generously created have seduced leading architects and designers for centuries.
Their decorative charm, however, is no longer enough. Today there must also be an awareness of their technical characteristics in order to pinpoint the most appropriate use for each material.
Giorgio Bianchini
Chairman Internazionale Marmi e Macchine Carrara Spa
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