Maltese Globigerina limestone has been granted international designation as a Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR), together with six other stones from as many countries.

The designation recognises stones that have been in historic use for a significant period of time and have common recognition as a cultural icon.

The other new designated stones are Lioz from Portugal, Lede stone from Belgium, Jacobsville stone from the USA, Kolmården serpentine marble from Sweden, Welsh slate from Wales, and Piedra Mar del Plata from Argentina.

Managed by the International Union of Geological Sciences, the designation follows a long and detailed review by experts in the field.

The nomination for global recognition was led by the University of Malta’s Department of Conservation and Built Heritage, and also involved the Department of Geosciences of the University of Malta.

The GHSR designation was set up in 2008 to seek international recognition for natural stone resources that have achieved widespread utilisation in human culture.

It aims to promote greater prominence for natural stone that has been used in artistic and architectural masterpieces, and heritage buildings, as well as routine historic stone applications.

It also aims to enhance recognition of natural stone amongst geologists, engineers, architects, heritage professionals, stone industry managers and other groups that work with stone.

The other designated stones are: Portland Stone (UK), Petit granite (Belgium), Larvikite (Norway), Podpêc limestone (Slovenia), Hallandia gneiss (Sweden), Carrara marble (Italy), Villamayor Stone (Spain) and Estremoz marble (Portugal).