Lajas

Lajas is the plural form of laja in Spanish, a term used to describe flat, broad slabs of rock. In geology and construction, lasja refers to thin to thick slabs that are typically formed by metamorphic or sedimentary rocks such as slate, schist, quartzite, or limestone. Lajas are valued for their natural cleavage, durability, and varied textures, and they are harvested from quarries where they can be split, sawn, or dressed for use.

In practical use, lajas serve as paving stones, flooring, roofing slates, and wall cladding. They are commonly employed in sidewalks, patios, exterior façades, and interior finishes, where their natural appearance and slip resistance are desirable. The surface of lajas can show distinctive colorations, grain patterns, and rustic or polished finishes, depending on the rock type and finishing technique. Their performance depends on rock hardness, porosity, and climate exposure, with some varieties more suited to wet or outdoor environments than others.

Geographically, Lajas is also a toponym. It is the name of several municipalities and localities in Spanish-speaking countries, with the most widely known example being Lajas, Puerto Rico, a coastal municipality in the western region of the island. The name reflects the historical and ongoing association of the places with rock areas where flat slabs could be found or quarried.