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In earlier times, the fireplace hearth was made from brick or stone and used for cooking or heating. In fact, the fireplace hearth was actually considered a very important part of the home, often being considered its most vital feature. As the years passed, the purpose of the heath changed slightly but today, it is still commonly made from brick or stone and viewed as an important part of the fireplace.
Now, in archaeology, the fireplace hearth was actually a fire pit commonly used for heating, cooking, and processing floral, faunal, stone, and wood resources. Interestingly, as archaeologists have uncovered the earlier fireplace hearth, they discovered fragments of things such as animal bones, fish bones, charcoal, ash, carbonized shell, and various other waste products. Today, the fireplace hearth is a place that can be used for a number of things. For instance, the hearth is a place to sit by a roaring fire, or it could be a place to set statues, figurines, topiaries, and other beautiful items to enhance the appearance of the home. Some people will place scented candles on the fire hearth during the summer and then switch them out with something different for the winter months. Of course, the fireplace hearth becomes the focal point during the holidays, often decorated with garlands, miniature Christmas trees, stuffed bears, and all types of festive decorations. Just as with the fireplace mantle, the fireplace hearth can be made from a number of materials. Again, while brick and stone are the most common, you might also see a fireplace hearth made from marble, granite, and ceramic tile. Depending on the style of the fireplace hearth, it may extend far enough from the fireplace to protect carpeting or flooring from shooting embers. However, if the fireplace hearth is short and low to the ground, then you could easily add a hearthrug, which is designed specifically for this purpose. This type of rug would set right up next to the fireplace hearth, adding color and texture, but also protection for your floor. While a fireplace hearth is simply beautiful, adding interest to the fireplace and room, it also means sharp corners, which can be a risk to small children. Because of falls, manufacturers have now come up with a new product known as a fireplace heart pad. With this, the sharp corners of the fireplace are protected with a special, fire retardant pad that would cushion any falls. This way, your child can play near the area without you worrying about injury. Once the child grows older, the fireplace hearth pad can be removed.
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