Granite will always be a popular choice for countertops. It is durable, has natural beauty, comes in many colors, and can be cost-effective (depending on which slab you choose). So what exactly is granite, and what else should you know about it?
Granite is formed under the Earth’s surface by magma that slowly cools and crystallizes over time. Granite is made up of quartz, feldspar, micas, amphiboles, and a mixture of additional trace minerals. Some unavoidable characteristics of granite are pits & fissures.
A pit is a gap between the mineral composition of crystals, creating an indentation. Whether or not granite has pits depends on the mineral composition of the stone. While pitting is typically due to changes in the stone’s composite during polishing, it can also be a result of improper care of the stone.
Like pits, fissures are natural to granite. Fissures are a feature of granite that resembles a crack. They are a result of high pressure and heat during formation. A difference between cracks and fissures is that fissures usually appear in more than one place on the stone, whereas cracks are usually in one place.
Granite is stain, scratch, and heat resistant. It is one of the hardest stones on the market and cannot be easily damaged, but that doesn’t mean damage is impossible. Caring for granite is simple. First, seal your granite as recommended by the installer. When cleaning the surface, use a granite cleaner or warm water with mild soap. Avoid harsh and acidic chemicals – these can remove sealant from the countertop, which will leave the surface vulnerable to damage. Also, try to use cutting boards and hot pads to prevent unnecessary damage.
| Pros of Granite: | Cons of Granite: |
| – Heat resistant
– Scratch-resistant – Can be repaired if broken, unless shattered |
– Needs to be sealed; otherwise, there can be staining
– Is porous |
Here are some kitchens that feature beautiful granites.
Lemurian Blue Granite will leave you wondering how nature created something so beautiful. The granite features rich shades of blue, green, turquoise, and black.
Via Lattea Granite is simple yet stunning. The granite features a black background with white veins. The leathered finish leaves the stone slightly matte, highlighting the natural contours.
Monte Cristo Granite is dramatic yet delicate at the same time. The granite features an off-white background colored in beige, navy, and taupe veins and patterns.
Black Horse Granite is one of nature’s most beautiful creations. The granite features thick and dynamic neutral veins painted across a black background.
Smokey Mountain Granite is bold and beautiful! The granite features a light gray background colored in gray swirls and veins. The leathered finish highlights the patterns, showcasing the different shades of gray.
Granite is a great option for your home. It is durable – perfect for high-traffic areas, easy to care for, and comes in an assortment of unique colors and patterns.