Fjære Granite
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Fjære Granite (Norwegian: Fjæregranitt), also known as Grimstad Granite, Fevik Granite, or Red Star Granite, is a coarse-grained, reddish biotite granite found east of Grimstad in Agder county, southern Norway—particularly near Fevik. The rock formation is estimated to be approximately 950 million years old, dating back to the Proterozoic eon.[1]
Fjære Granite is noted for its robust, red appearance. It features large crystals of red microcline alongside lighter albitic feldspar, bluish quartz, and clusters of biotite up to 10 mm in size. The deposit forms an almost oval area extending from Grimstad nearly to the Arendal border, and it continues beneath the Skagerrak Sea.[2][3]
Uses and historical quarrying
Historically, this granite was popular in construction, interior design, monuments, and gravestones. Quarrying began in the 1870s, and by 1905, three granite workshops operated, employing around 50–75 people each. Much of the stone was exported. After World War II, demand declined due to competition from other red granites in the global market.[citation needed]
In 1966, operations resumed at the Fjæreheia quarry under the trade name New Red Star, but this effort ceased around 1970 due to insufficient market demand.[citation needed]