Preferred term

Scagliola

Definition

From Italian, diminutive of scaglia chip of marble, of Germanic origin; related to shale, scale. Semi-hydrated calcium sulphate was obtained by partial calcination of high-purity gypsum (must contain more than 80 % semi-hydrated gypsum). They have been widely used in construction, sculpture, and architectural decoration. Finished plaster pieces can be dyed, patinated, or surface treated to achieve the desired appearance.