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Stone FAQ
HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON STONE CARE QUESTIONS:
Granite Slab Line Processing
Granite
Granite is a coarse-grained igneous rock, which means that at one time during its development, it was melted like volcanic lava. Unlike lava, however, this melted (or molten) rock never reached the surface. It remained trapped inside the earth, where it slowly cooled and crystallized, resulting in a very uniform, speckled stone that ranges in color from black and gray tones to pinks, browns, reds, greens and whites.
Granite Facts
Nearly impossible to scratch Accepts hot pots and pans Will not stain under normal use and clean up after use Does not harbor bacteria Not affected by citric acid, coffee, tea, alcohol, wine, etc. Generally will last forever
Slab Epoxy Line
Marble
Marble is a metamorphic rock. It was once limestone, but over time, the combination of intense heat and pressure caused the limestone to re-crystallize. Foreign substances often entered the stone during this process, creating an infinite variety of colors, textures and veining. Marble is a lot like people; no two are exactly alike
TRAVERTINE & ONYX
Travertine is limestone, in a sense. It is formed by geysers, like Old Faithful, when the extremely hot underground water dissolves the underlying limestone and carries it upwards with the geyser water. When the water falls to the ground and evaporates, it leaves behind the dissolved limestone which re-hardens into stone. Like CalistogaTM or PerrierTM waters, the new stone is full of gas bubbles, which give travertine its characteristic appearance. When it is manufactured as tiles or slabs, travertine is generally filled with cement and polished or honed
Onyx, like travertine, is the result of water dissolving existing limestone and re-depositing it as a new kind of stone, sometimes called sinter. In limestone caves, onyx is formed by drip water, as stalagmites and stalactites. It is a very soft stone, and somewhat brittle, and needs to be installed where it will not be subject to hard wear. This beautiful stone is characterized by its translucence, and can actually be backlit for striking, dramatic effects.
Marbles and granites are quarried throughout the world in the form of huge blocks, some weighing up to 20 tons. These blocks are cut into slabs that are generally 3/4" or 1 1/4" thick and the faces are polished to the specified finish.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Granite is striking, functional and the most durable. These traits make granite ideal for kitchen counter tops, accent islands, bar tops, everyday dining tables, and many other uses. Marble and onyx, on the other hand, are the most elegant and luxurious of stones. Marble's beauty will last for generations. It is versatile enough for use throughout the home, such as fireplace facings, ornamental furnishings, walls and window sills. Marble shines best in the bath. You can use it on almost every surface, including vanities, shower walls, tub decks and flooring. Onyx is a very soft stone, and somewhat brittle, and needs to be installed where it will not be subject to hard wear. This beautiful stone is characterized by its translucence and can actually be backlit for striking, dramatic effects. We have seen onyx installed in bathrooms and on kitchen counter tops, while granite is the most recommended for kitchens.
Materials for flooring
Limestone, Marble, and Travertine can all be used on floors without much worry, especially if you choose a honed or tumbled tile with subtle shading variations. The honed and tumbled tiles are already scratched and beat up, so there is very little stress about scratches and scuffs. As a bonus, honed or tumbled tiles are much safer than polished ones because wet feet will not slip as easily. In addition, stones with shading variations hide dirt and stains better than highly polished material.