HS Code for Alabaster

Alabaster is classified under HS code 251520, which specifically designates "Ecaussine and other calcareous monumental or building stone; alabaster, having a specific gravity of 2.5 or more." This classification is precise, identifying alabaster not merely as a mineral, but as a specific type of calcareous stone primarily used for monumental or building purposes. The inclusion of the specific gravity criterion (2.5 or more) is crucial, as it helps to differentiate the denser, more durable forms of alabaster suitable for construction and artistic applications from other, lighter gypsum varieties. This ensures that the classification accurately reflects its commercial and structural utility.

Products Included

• Raw alabaster blocks for carving or construction
• Roughly cut alabaster slabs for architectural applications
• Alabaster in crude form, meeting the specific gravity requirement
• Calcareous monumental stone identified as alabaster

Common Misclassification

Alabaster can be misclassified with other monumental or building stones, such as marble and travertine (HS codes 251511 and 251512), or with general gypsum (HS code 2520). While alabaster is a form of gypsum, its classification under 251520 is distinct because it is specifically recognized as a "monumental or building stone" with a defined specific gravity. General gypsum (2520) typically refers to the raw mineral used for plaster, drywall, or cement production, without the specific aesthetic or structural qualities implied by "monumental or building stone." The specific gravity threshold further refines this distinction, ensuring that only suitable alabaster is classified here.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Alabaster?

The HS code for alabaster, when classified as a calcareous monumental or building stone with a specific gravity of 2.5 or more, is 251520.

What is the significance of the "specific gravity of 2.5 or more" for alabaster classification?

The specific gravity criterion of 2.5 or more is significant because it helps to distinguish the denser, more robust forms of alabaster that are suitable for monumental, sculptural, or building applications. This physical property ensures that the classified material possesses the necessary structural integrity and durability expected of a building stone, differentiating it from lighter, less dense forms of gypsum that might be used for other industrial purposes.