Slate Pool Tables

Slate originates from sedimentary rock far beneath the surface of the earth. Slate is an organic stone with a high content of carbon, calcite and fine grained mica (quartz). Because it is organic , it moves and shifts with changes in temperature and humidity, and as it emits moisture. Being similar to wood in this respect, it forms the perfect adjunct to wood in the construction of a billiard table. These characteristics of slate provide the elasticity which is vital to the proper installation and playability of a billiard table.

Although slate in one form or another as abundant throughout the world, most of it is unsuitable for billiards. For use in billiards the slate must be fine grained, elastic, and have a low propensity to absorb moisture.