Resources > About Marble, Granite & Natural Stone
GRANITE
Granite has been an part of civilization since the beginning of architecture. It is an igneous rock, formed mainly by the crystallization of once molten material under conditions of extreme heat and pressure. Granite is one of the hardest and most durable of all flooring tiles. Its smooth polish brings a classic elegant feel to your home. Granite tile is a perfect choice for hard surface applications where durability and low maintenance is important, such as kitchen countertops, high traffic floors. Popular choices include: Absolute Black and Black Galaxy from India, Giallo Veneziano and Ubatuba from Brazil, Blue Pearl from Finland and Baltic Brown from Norway.
Check out our gallery of Granite examples.
LIMESTONE
Limestone is a sedimentary rock formed by the cementing together of naturally accumulated rock fragments and organic sediments via a chemical process in shallow prehistoric marine environments. Limestone’s granular composition consists primarily of calcite. It varies in degrees of hardness; the densest stones can be polished to a very high gloss finish. The most common colors are beige, gray, white, yellow and brown. Acidic foods and cleaners will etch the surface of limestone. Proper care and maintenance requires the use of only neutral soaps and detergents. Limestone is also a porous stone and requires sealing with silicone based impregnators. Limestone is quite durable, and, with proper maintenance, some types can perform extremely well in high traffic areas.
Check out our gallery of Limestone examples.
MARBLE
Marble tile has been a part of civilization since the beginning of architecture. For thousands of years it's natural beauty has been utilized in sculpted art and building structures, gracing all elements of construction. Strength, range of color and pattern variation fascinates humanity.
Marble is a metamorphic, crystalline rock formed by the intrusion of an igneous rock into a limestone stone mass. The heat and pressure alters the original molecular structure of the calcite present in the limestone and causes re-crystallization of the calcite and the formation of new minerals. The result is marble with the much appreciated characteristics of heavy veining and wide range of colors. Marble surfaces take a high polish, but are not very hard and scratch easily. Its natural composition makes marble an easy target for acids in food and cleaning products. They etch the marble surface, damaging the polished finish. Marble is a porous stone and requires silicone based sealing. With proper maintenance, marble performs extremely well, though it is not recommended for use in kitchens.
Check out our Marble Gallery for examples.
TRAVERTINE
Travertine is distinguished from other sedimentary rocks by its “spongy” texture and large number of holes, varying in size and shape. Travertine colors are usually light ivory and beige, but impurities and iron compounds found in the stone are responsible for the creation of reds, yellows and dark brown colors. Travertine is durable and performs well in all types of applications but must be properly sealed and maintained. The distinctive holes may be filled or left natural (unfilled) according to its proposed application and desired aesthetic appeal. Unfilled travertine must not be used outside in cold climates.
Check out our gallery of Travertine examples.
QUARZTITE
Quartzite (Metaquartzite), which is composed of more than 90% quartz, is formed from the metamorphosis of sandstone. Its crystals are tightly fused, forming a hard crystalline rock. It is an evenly textured stone, medium to fine grain, sugary in appearance and pale in color.
Check out our gallery of Quartzite examples.