Caesarstone unveils ICON - pioneering advanced fusion surfaces with wellbeing in mind.

Caesarstone has introduced ICON - driven by the desire to promote wellbeing for both people and the planet.

Caesarstone ICON is a "revolutionary advanced fusion surface category, that is crystalline silica-free and includes ~80% recycled materials".

Promising to set a new standard for innovation, sustainability, and safety in surface design, ICON provides advanced surface solutions that deliver superior performance - without the presence of crystalline silica.

Caesarstone has developed ICON utilising its optimum expertise and technology. Crafted from a unique blend of high-quality raw materials, natural minerals, and up to 80% recycled content, including glass, this innovative collection exemplifies the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence, environmental responsibility, and the wellbeing of its business partners and customers.

Edward Smith, MD of Caesarstone UK & ROI, states, “Caesarstone ICON is a revolutionary next step for the brand. This groundbreaking formulation speaks to Caesarstone's deep-rooted commitment to innovation, meeting the growing demand for safer, more environmentally conscious products. Since 1987, Caesarstone has led the way in surface design, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation."

Greater safety in the sector

Caesarstone ICON's fusion surfaces are made from a unique crystalline silica-free blend, providing a safer environment for fabricator partners. Adhering to Caesarstone’s highest fabrication standards, the brand’s advanced fusion surfaces surpass rigorous industry and safety tests and comply with strict regulatory requirements.

Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing at Caesarstone UK & ROI, explains more.

Why is Caesarstone ICON so pioneering?

“Caesarstone ICON is a new material. It’s not quartz or porcelain but rather an advanced fusion surface made up of a new blend of innovative materials and recycled materials. ICON surfaces are backed by Caesarstone’s legacy of innovation, quality, and craftsmanship and a brand that is committed to transparency, accountability, and adherence to the highest international standards.

"Since Caesarstone's inception almost 40 years ago, we have been committed to innovation and we have always had a strong R&D division that continuously seeks ways to drive the market forward. Having pioneered the quartz market in 1987, our first step into alternative materials came in 2020 with the acquisition of a porcelain plant in India.

"Since then, we have expanded into low-silica stones, quickly adapting our manufacturing processes in response to global demands. Today, we have a presence in multiple product categories, including quartz, low-silica, crystalline silica-free and porcelain materials.”

From a health and safety perspective, how does Caesarstone ICON tick these boxes?

“Silicosis is an occupational disease caused by exposure to silica dust, which in the stone industry can result from cutting natural stone, as well as quartz and other engineered stones. More broadly, this issue affects the entire construction industry and relates to materials like sand, clay, tiles, cement, bricks, and mortar.

"Critically, all of these materials can be processed safely when the necessary precautions are taken, a view supported in the stone industry by The Worktop Fabricators Federation (WFF). Good quality factory management, water-based dust-suppression and proper monitoring of workers’ health are absolutely de rigeur in a well-run worktop factory, immaterial of the material under the saw.

"So Caesarstone’s approach is twofold. Materially, we have worked to produce first low silica and then crystalline silica free variants of our products, and these are rolling out globally. Secondly, we continue to offer free training to fabricators so that they know what they should be doing. In the UK, we also work closely with the HSE on this issue.”

In addition to the health and safety benefits, and environmental consciousness, ICON also aesthetically offers enhanced dimension and texture.

Caesarstone ICON is now available - visit caesarstone.co.uk/icon for more information. And pop into Material Source Studio Glasgow, where Caesarstone is a Partner.

5110 Alpine Mist and 4011 Cloudburst Concrete are the first surfaces in the Caesarstone range to launch under Caesarstone ICON. From June, Caesarstone will reveal additional designs that will be introduced under this innovative surface category.