What is granite?
Granite is a naturally occurring igneous (formed from immense heat) rock formed from magma and is used for decorative purposes in Architectural Construction and Remodeling. The appearance and hardness of certain stones determines its classification as either “granite”, “marble” or “slate”.
Polished granite is a popular choice for kitchen countertops due to its high durability and aesthetic qualities. In building and for countertops, the term “granite” is often applied to all igneous rocks with large crystals, and not specifically to those with a granitic composition.
Stone Colors and Appearance
Granites and marbles are quarried throughout the world in a variety of colors with varying mineral compositions. In most cases, marbles and granites can be identified by visible particles at the surface of the stone. Marble will normally show “veins” or high concentrations. The minerals in granite will typically appear as small flecks distributed uniformly in the stone. Each type of stone is unique and will vary in color, texture and marking.
Sandstones vary widely in color due to different minerals and clays found in the stone. Sandstone is light gray to yellow or red. A dark reddish brown sandstone, also called brownstone, has commonly been used in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. Bluestone is a dense, hard, fine-grained sandstone of greenish-gray or bluish-gray color and is quarried in the eastern United States.
Limestone is a widely used building stone with colors typically light gray, tan or buff. A distinguishing characteristic of many limestones is the presence of fossils that are frequently visible in the stone surface. Slate is dark green, black, gray, dark red or multicolored. It is most commonly used as a flooring material and for roof tiles and is often distinguished by its distinct cleft texture.
Stone Finishes
StoneTex can obtain various granite finishes from the distributors we work closely with. We also have the ability to offer “custom” finishes on our in-stock slabs as described below. Contact us in order to learn more about this unique service.
Polished Granite Finish
A polished finish on the stone has a glossy surface that reflects light and emphasizes the color and marking of the material. This type of finish is used on walls, furniture tops and other items, as well as floor tiles.
An example of a polished finish.
Honed Granite Finish
A honed finish is a satin smooth surface with relatively little light reflection. Generally, a honed finish is preferred for floors, stair treads, thresholds and other locations where heavy traffic will wear off the polished finish. A honed finish may also be used on furniture tops and other surfaces.
An example of a honed finish.
Flamed Granite Finish
A flamed finish is a rough textured surface used frequently on granite floor tiles, though it may be applied to countertops as well.
An close-up example of a flamed finish.