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      River pebbles and Calades

      How are pebbles formed?

      Pebbles are smooth, rounded stones, usually of fluvial or marine origin, formed through a natural process of erosion and transport of rocks by water over time. Their distinctive shape results from the constant movement of rivers or ocean waves. These natural stones are characterized by their rounded form and polished surface.

      Composition:

      Pebbles are generally made up of rocks such as granite, limestone, sandstone, or basalt.

      Subject to the forces of nature, like water movement and weather conditions, blocks of stone break off from their original rock source and are carried away by river currents or ocean waves. They then undergo abrasion that smoothes their edges, polishing them until they take on their rounded shape and smooth appearance, forming pebbles of various sizes.

      What are the different types of pebbles?

      River pebbles:

      River pebbles, also known as “cat’s head pebbles”, are natural, rounded and polished stones found in rivers or riverbeds. They get their name from their characteristic shape, which resembles the head of a cat, with rounded edges and a smooth surface.

      Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, Noblema offers pebbles in mixed colors with warm and light tones such as beige, yellow, gray, and ochre, as well as three standard sizes (60/80 mm, 80/120 mm, 120/200 mm). These water-polished pebbles will add a natural and welcoming touch to your landscaping and decoration projects.

      Whole cat's head pebbles

      Cleaved pebbles:

      The cleaved pebble, also known as “stable pebbles”, is a variation of pebbles once used in stables. Unlike traditional river pebbles, stable pebbles are cleaved or split to create a flatter, more rustic surface, resembling the ground of old stables.

      The cleaving process involves breaking the pebbles in a controlled way to obtain a flatter, more regular surface. This creates a non-slip texture that provides better grip.

      Cleaved pebbles

      Sawn pebbles:

      The sawn pebble, also known as the “Provençal Calade”, is a traditional technique from the Provence region in France. This technique involves sawing or cutting the upper part of the pebbles, creating a flat and regular surface while preserving their natural aesthetic.

      The sawing process of the pebbles creates a flat surface, ensuring comfortable walking for pedestrians and accessibility for people with reduced mobility (PMR), while maintaining the characteristic charm of natural pebbles.

      Sawn pebble calade

      What is a calade?

      A calade is a landscaping and urban technique that involves arranging pebbles or flat stones meticulously to create a decorative paving. This ordered arrangement of pebbles allows for the formation of patterns, designs, or simply flat, regular surfaces.

      Traditionally used in Provence and Languedoc, the calade is often found in narrow streets of picturesque villages, paved squares, stairways, and inner courtyards. It is an ancient practice that has endured through time and contributes to the architectural identity and charm of southern France. Pebbles can be found in southern France as well as in Europe and around the world on coastal areas and in riverbeds.

      In the past, this technique was commonly used to create paved streets in certain regions of southern France to facilitate water drainage. The pebbles or stones were carefully arranged to form sloped calades, naturally guiding the rainwater.

       

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