Is granite a natural product or is it man made?

Granite is a natural product. Granite is quarried in its natural from directly from the Earth and is cut and processed by machine. Due to granite's extreme hardness and mineral content, granite can be polished to a mirror-like finish using proper machinery.  

What is the difference between Quartz and Natural Stone (granite, marble, etc.)?

Quartz stone is made up of finely ground stone mixed with resins or cement-based products, then poured into a mold to create a slab. Natural Stone is cut directly from the Earth. It is then cut and polished in its original, natural form.

Can you use marble in a kitchen?

The short answer is yes, you can use marble. However, because marble is susceptible to staining, scratching, etching, the use of marble in a kitchen requires careful consideration.

What is Soapstone? What kind of maintenance does it require?

Soapstone is quarried like granite and marble. Its primary components are magnetite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc. Talc in soapstone is soft to touch, which gives the smooth feeling of rubbing a piece of dry soap (thus the name "soap" stone). For maintenance, mineral oil should be applied to the stone, which darkens the color and works as a protective sealer. The mineral oil will need to be reapplied to the stone periodically, especially when the countertop is first installed. Over time, a patina will develop and the mineral oil can be applied less often. Soapstone WILL scratch. Scratches can be sanded out and re-sealed with mineral oil.

How long will my natural stone last?

Take care of your natural stone and it will last for generations!

Is granite more expensive than man made materials?

It depends on the granite. Availability, color, and country of origin are major factors that affect the price of granite. Given that stone is a natural product and imported from all over the world, the price spectrum is wide. However, many granite colors are offered at the same price or less than man made products.

Can I put a hot pot directly on granite?

Yes! Placing a hot pot on granite will not affect it.

Will bacteria grow on granite?

Bacteria, like any other organism, needs something to eat in order to live. Bacteria cannot eat granite. Unclean, unkempt countertops can harbor bacteria regardless of what countertop is used. Granite has performed extremely well in testing its ability to resist bacterial growth. Granite was second only to stainless steel.

Can you cut on granite? Do I need to use a cutting board?

Yes, you can cut directly on granite. However, routinely cutting on a granite surface will dull your cutlery.

Our sales representative will be happy to answer any other questions you might have about granite, marble, or quartz!