Characteristics of Natural Stone |
| Geologists classify rocks according to their minerals and origins. The stone industry is more concerned with how hard the stone is.
The main minerals in true granites are silicates, feldspar, and quartz. The most important mineral is quartz. It's not granite without quartz.
True granite is easy to distinguish because of its lighter colors. Usually the colors are whites, pinks, or light grays and the color is uniform throughout the stone. If you see a stone of another color, it's not granite. |
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Technically marble is a recrystallised, compact variety of metamorphosed limetone capable of taking polish. Commercially, marble is any crystalline rock composed predominantly of calcite, dolomite or serpentine, having 3-4 hardness, which can be excavated as blocks and can be sawed and takes good polish. |
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| Onyx is a calcareous stone and prone to etching and staining from acids such as ketchup, lemons, alcohol, and household cleaners. Great care is needed to maintain the natural beauty of this stone. Similar to limestone, onyx is a softer stone best placed where it won't be used or abused on a day to day basis. It is porous and needs to be sealed. Otherwise, it will absorb water and liquids easily which tend to stain the stone. Once a stain is absorbed into onyx, it is extremely hard to remove.
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Quartzite is a hard, metamorphic rock which was originally sandstone . Through heating and pressure usually related to tectonic compression within orogenic belts , the original quartz sand grains and quartz silica cement were fused into one. Pure quartzite is usually white to grey. Quartzites often occur in various shades of pink and red due to varying amounts of iron oxide. Other colors are due to impurities of minor amounts of other minerals. |
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| Slate is an exotic and unique natural stone. It's stately, sturdy, and durable. This earthy stone exudes warmth. The character of slate stone allows it to fit into a traditional design with an informal time worn look. A real classic old world feel.
Try using a matte finish to create a rich and sophisticated look in your modern kitchen design. A much sleeker and more refined look. This stones at home in a log cabin as well as in an upscale high rise.
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| Travertine stone is soft and delicate to look at. It breathes spaciousness. It's relaxed and soothing. The feeling is peaceful, tranquil, serene. It's a simple beauty. A casual formalness.
The classic aged look of tumbled stone will warm your home. A polished or honed travertine becomes a bit more formal but yet, it's still inviting. The soft earthy hues of this natural stone truly keep it in tune with nature.
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