What is granite? Marble? Travertine?
Granite is the most popular stone type used in countertop applications today. Granite is an igneous rock (formed over millions of years by solidification of magma) made up of several different minerals, including quartz, mica, and feldspar. Marble is a metamorphic rock (rock changed by pressure, heat, and water) predominantly consisting of calcite, dolomite, and crystals. (Onyx is considered part of the marble family.) Marbles and onyxes typically have a diverse aesthetic appeal, accentuated by distinct veining and often bold colors. They are relatively softer than granite. For a variety of reasons, marble and onyx are not recommended for use in kitchens; however, they can be a good selection for bathrooms. Travertine is a calcium based stone. Travertines are very porous and even have holes in the stone. Again, travertine is not recommended for use in a kitchen.
Where does your stone come from?
Most are from Brazil, Italy, and India. Our main supplier is Daltile, one of the largest importers of natural stone in the country.
What are the best selling granites?
Stones that are consistently top sellers include New Venetian Gold, Santa Cecilia, Ashen White, and Tropic Brown.
There is such a wide range of prices. Are there different quality levels (grades) of stone?
Usually the higher grades of granite are due to consistent coloration and not quality. Stone pricing is generally based upon availability/scarcity of the stone, thickness, and the country of origin. Where the stone is quarried also affects the pricing. For example, blue-toned granite is said to come from deeper beneath the earth’s surface, making it rarer and more costly.
How thick is the granite?
Most is 3 cm (approx. 1 ¼ inch) thick. Some stones are available in 2 cm (approx. 3/4”) thickness.
Can I go and select my slab?
Yes. You can go to our Stone Center to look at available slabs. Our Stone Center is conveniently located just inside I-285 off of Howell Mill Road. If you do not select your slab(s) in person, please remember that you are purchasing a natural stone product that will have variations from the sample. Some stones have far more variation than others. Even a single granite or marble slab will possess a certain amount of color variation from one end to the other.