A slab of natural stone like granite and marble are exquisite works of art that Toronto homeowners can enjoy for their pragmatic and classically beautiful characteristics. Commonly used as kitchen countertops and vanity tops, natural stones such as granite and marble, though both beautiful, have some distinct and different characteristics that Toronto homeowners should be aware of. Though a slab of both granite and marble are unique works of art made by Mother Nature herself, their individually different mineral compositions produce two very distinctive masterpieces and no two slab of each natural stone is like another.

 

 

Granite is an igneous rock that is a result of volcanic activity. Magma, a composition of essential minerals that have melted together in the Earth’s core cools down, it experiences a lengthy period of immense pressure underneath the surface of the earth. Similar to diamonds, another type of igneous rock, granite is produced after millions of years of being squeezed under an unimaginable amount of pressure resulting in long-lasting strength, hardness and eye catching beauty. There are many minerals that compose the beauty and durability of granite, these include but are not limited to:

• Quartz
• Hornblende
• Silica
• Feldspar
• Mica

Strength and Durability

 

Due to the combination of unique mineral composition and intense pressure undertaken to create granite, it is most favourable for it’s durability in high-use conditions such as kitchen countertops, vanity tops and even flooring in commercial spaces that experience high foot traffic. A product of millions of years under intense heat and pressure, granite countertops are naturally resistant to heat and will not crack or damage under the, miniscule in comparison, heat and pressure of a hot pot of spaghetti or hot kettle of tea.

 

 

Like granite and other natural stones, marble is also a product of nature millions of years in the making. A metamorphic rock that once used to be limestone, marble is composed mainly of the minerals calcite and dolomite that have recrystallized over time. Because calcite is crystalline, rays of light are allowed through the mineral, though only in fractions of a quarter of an inch, giving marble its unique shimmering beauty and elegant charm.  The word ‘marble’ itself actually derives from the Greek "marmaros” which meant  "sparkling” or "shining stone”. When impurities such as clay or iron oxide enter the composition, swirls and veins of different colours are produced. Every slab of marble is truly a beautiful work of art.  Though the rare combination of minerals results in a unique beauty, marble is also a softer stone compared to other natural stones like granite, which is why ancient sculptors preferred this natural stone. In the home, marble counters make a beautiful addition though homeowners should consider the maintenance needed to keep the gentle stone in tip-top shape.

 

Beauty Versus Durability

 

A slab of marble provides a beautiful and classic look to the kitchen or bathroom like no other natural stone while granite will provide its own unique beauty as well as the confidence of strength and durability.  Ultimately, it is up to Toronto homeowners to decide which slab of granite and marble is suited for their application and needs based on their preference of beauty or durability.