What is Granite?

Granite is—quite literally—as old as the earth. It is formed from liquid magma, the molten rock still found at the core of the planet, cooled slowly to form a substance approaching the hardness and durability of diamond. Granite is an igneous rock, the name reflecting its fiery beginnings. The chemical composition of granite is similar to that of lava. However, granite owes its hardness and density to the fact that it has been solidified deep within the earth, under extreme pressure. It is accurate to speak of "granites," because many varieties of the stone exist. While they differ in color, texture and crystalline structure, the granites have three essential minerals in common: Feldspar (50% or greater), Quartz (25-40%) and Mica (3-10%). These minerals occur in different proportions, giving each unique type of stone its own color, texture and structural characteristics. Other minerals add to the unique coloration and texture of each granite deposit. With natural material like granite, a certain amount of "movement" or grain in the stone must be expected. Many people find this flow and blending of colors to be a very convincing reason for using granite.

For a beautiful addition to your home, you may want to consider installing granite countertops in the kitchen of your home. Besides the look of the countertop, granite countertops can provide benefits to the homeowner that cannot be found in other coutnertop surface materials.

Granite Counter Tops Colors & Patterns

From a design perspective granite is a dream. A broad spectrum of colors and an interesting array of patterns offer endless possibilities. And the choices are continually expanding as more countries and regions around the globe begin to explore their unique geology to bring new granites to market.

To view colors please visit our granite color palette

Colors include many choices in golden browns, pale pinks, deep plums, romantic reds, exotic blues, greens, blacks and many subtle shades in-between. The pattern can be highly structured offering a uniform appearance over the entire countertop or the pattern may change continually, without repetition, called "movement".

Granite and Its Benefits:

• Granite is the hardest stone found in nature next to the diamond.
• Granite will not deteriorate or burn when exposed to hot pots.
• Normal kitchen knives, cutlery, and cookware can all be used on granite countertops without scratching the surface.
• Many colors are available. This is in part due to the fact that the material is quarried from all over the world. Shading varies from light to all the rich, warm and deep tones
• Kitchen granite countertops can be coordinated with almost any sink finish and accessory type, from ceramic to copper and stainless steel.
• Granite was produced approximately 200 million years ago.
• Granite has a crystal-like, elegant appearance which is attributed to its formation from rising lava which solidified and cooled down slowly over millions of years under Earth’s crust before reaching the surface.
• The crystal-like appearance combined with a high-quality sealant keeps granite countertops shining for years.
• Granite is not susceptible to mold or mildew due to its low porosity.
• Granite countertops will add to the value of your home. This makes it a sound investment. It makes a individualistic design statement in your home and adds character to kitchens. You will note that the colors change constantly, as the light in the room changes.

Versatile, resilient and naturally beautiful,granite is an excellent surface for any project you're planning. No other natural stone or engineered stone can match granite's numerous and unique characteristics.