A rare, bituminous limestone in a deep, chocolate brown with natural tonal movement and beautifully preserved fossil traces. Over millennia, hard white limestone in this region became gently impregnated with bitumen from underground oil beds, creating its unmistakable depth of colour and leathery patina.

First worked in the 17th century, the quarry fell silent in the 1930s and has only recently been revived. Once installed, the stone is traditionally hand-oiled and sealed to enrich its tones and develop a supple, almost leather-like surface.

A Paris Ceramics signature, Bitter Chocolate Limestone suits both classical and contemporary schemes. Supplied primarily as tile; larger formats are scarce, though we can source slab and block for bespoke commissions—basins, stair components, friezes, and cornices.

For interior use only; ideal for floors and wall cladding.