Granite Facts

Granite looks beautiful in your kitchen but did you know that granite is found on all 5 continents and that it is mined in Brazil, China, India, South Africa and the United States? Here are more granite facts.

What is Granite?

Granite is quite literally as old as the earth. It is an igneous rock created deep within the earth from magma, and cooled slowly under great pressure. Granite is the hardest building stone with very dense grain, making it virtually impervious to stain.

How does granite reach the earth's surface?

Over the eons, seismic activity has changed the crust of the planet, forcing veins of granite to the surface. Glaciers have scraped off layers of dirt, sand and rock to expose granite formations. Typically revealed by outcrops, granite deposits have been discovered on all 5 continents.

Are there different types of granite?

Yes, many varieties of granite exist. While they differ in color, texture and crystalline structure, the granites have three essential minerals in common: Feldspar, Quartz, and Mica.

These minerals occur in different proportions, giving each granite its own color, texture and structural characteristics. In addition, hornblende, magnetite, hematite, pyrite, zircon, garnet, corundum and other minerals may be present in smaller amounts, adding to the unique coloration and texture of each granite deposit.

How do you get granite of a consistent color and texture?

In supplying granite for a kitchen, building or group of buildings, it is essential that the stone be consistent in color and texture. To assure this, each granite color must be quarried from the same deposit. With natural material like granite, a certain amount of "movement" or grain in the stone must be expected. Most people find this flow and blending of colors to be the most compelling reason for using granite.