Question 1

What is नीला पाषाण (Bluestone)?

Accepted Answer

Nīlāśma (नीलाश्म, Bluestone), also known as *neelashila* (नीलशिला) or *krishna pashana* (कृष्ण पाषाण) in Sanskrit, and regionally as *karungal*, *nallarāyi*, *kappu kallu*, *karinkallu*, is a dark-colored, fine-grained extrusive igneous rock, often basalt or dolerite [1]. Its high compressive strength (150-200 MPa) and density (2.7-3.0 g/cm³) facilitated its use in load-bearing structures. Traditionally sourced from quarries across the Indian subcontinent, Nīlāśma served extensively in Indic heritage architecture, particularly in foundations, paving, and cladding. Historical periods like the Mauryan and Chalukya dynasties utilized it for monumental construction. Traditional processing involved quarrying, chiseling (*takshana*), and shaping using iron tools. Durability stems from low water absorption (<1%). Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful cleaning and repair using compatible materials to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic value. Understanding its geological origin and physical properties is crucial for effective restoration.

Question 2

What type of material is नीला पाषाण (Bluestone)?

Accepted Answer

नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) is classified as Igneous Rock, Extrusive Igneous Rock, Volcanic Rock. Key properties include Compressive strength: 150-200 MPa, Density: 2.7-3.0 g/cm³, Water absorption: <1%.

Question 3

Where is नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) used?

Accepted Answer

नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) is commonly used in Victoria, Australia. It is sourced from Quarries in Victoria, Australia.

Question 4

How is नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) is used for Foundation construction, Paving, Load-bearing walls, Cladding, Monument construction in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for नीला पाषाण (Bluestone)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) requires attention to Resistant to weathering but susceptible to staining and Requires cleaning with pH-neutral solutions. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	नीला पाषाण (Bluestone) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Nīlā pāṣāṇa Bluestone 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	Nīlāśma (नीलाश्म, Bluestone), also known as neelashila (नीलशिला) or krishna pashana (कृष्ण पाषाण) in Sanskrit, and regionally as karungal, nallarāyi, kappu kallu, karinkallu, is a dark-colored, fine-grained extrusive igneous rock, often basalt or dolerite [1]. Its high compressive strength (150-200 MPa) and density (2.7-3.0 g/cm³) facilitated its use in load-bearing structures. Traditionally sourced from quarries across the Indian subcontinent, Nīlāśma served extensively in Indic heritage architecture, particularly in foundations, paving, and cladding. Historical periods like the Mauryan and Chalukya dynasties utilized it for monumental construction. Traditional processing involved quarrying, chiseling (takshana), and shaping using iron tools. Durability stems from low water absorption (<1%). Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful cleaning and repair using compatible materials to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic value. Understanding its geological origin and physical properties is crucial for effective restoration.
Also Known As	Bluestone Nīlā pāṣāṇa Bluestone Basalt Dolerite Diabase नीलाश्म नीलशिला कृष्ण पाषाण கருங்கல் (Karungal) నల్లరాయి (Nallarāyi) ಕಪ್ಪು ಕಲ್ಲು (Kappu kallu) കരിങ്കല്ല് (Karinkallu)
Tags	नीलाश्म Nīlāśma Bluestone Basalt Victoria Quarry Igneous Rock
Material ID	`INHFMAT-706506107-20-11-25-NS`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/bluestone
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/bluestone`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

नीला पाषाण (Bluestone)

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Heritage Sites (1)

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