What is what color is slate?

Slate's color is highly variable, depending on its mineral composition and the presence of impurities. It's not a single color. However, the most common colors are shades of gray, ranging from very light, almost silver-gray, to very dark, almost black. Other common colors include:

  • Blue-gray: A very popular and often sought-after color.
  • Greenish-gray: Often seen in slates with higher chlorite content.
  • Purple: Less common, but can occur due to the presence of certain minerals.
  • Reddish-brown: Also less common, usually indicating the presence of iron oxides.

Essentially, while "gray" is the most accurate general descriptor, the precise shade of slate can vary significantly. Many slates also exhibit subtle variations in color within a single piece.