What
is natural stone?
Natural stone is a product of nature produced as a
result of million of years of different geological
changes that took place in the earths crust. This
has resulted in the creation of a wide variation of
color and characteristic. Depending upon its
process, composition and characteristics, Natural
stones have been grouped into categories such as granite,
marble, limestone, travertine, quartzite,
sandstone and onyx. |
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Granite is an igneous rock, which means as
it was formed as it cooled deep within the earth.
The minerals in granite occur in small amounts
throughout the stone creating a textured crystalline
appearance.
Marble was once a limestone that achieved
metamorphosis from intense pressure and high
temperatures within the earth. This altered its
crystalline structure and introduced other minerals
that produce the valuable color and veining.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed
mainly of calcium carbonate. Limestone ranges in
color from almost white to beige, rose, gold dark
green and even black. The texture varies from fine
grain stone to smooth fossil-bearing types and
course open textures.
Travertine is a chemical limestone formed in
pools by the slow participation of hot, mineral rich
spring water. The voids, pores and holes were
created when gas bubbles were trapped as the stone
was being formed million of years ago.
Quartzite is a hard stone composed of quartz
grain. It forms from sandstone that has come in
contact with deeply buried magma. Under high
temperature and pressure the grains will
re-crystallize and fuse together. Like marble,
quartzite comes in many different colors and tends
to have a sugary appearance.
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed
primarily of quartzite crystals bonded together with
silicone, calcium carbonate or iron oxide.
Onyx is a highly prized, beautiful
translucent stone with pastel colors and exquisite
formations. It is a layered calcite stone.
Why should I use natural stone in my home?
Natural stone is nature's timeless art. It lends
strength to its surroundings by evoking a classic
and unique feeling. It invites luxury into your home
while still being affordable.
Where can I use natural stone in my home?
Let you imagination flow and envision our beautify
natural stone on your kitchen counter tops, bathroom
vanity tops, flooring, patios, pool decks, backsplashes,
wall covering and much more.
Why is it best to use granite for kitchen counter
tops?
Granite is the hardest and densest of all the
natural stones. Since it is highly durable and
scratch resistance it is the first choice for
kitchen counter tops.
What are the advantages of natural stone over
man-made products?
Natural stone is a product of Mother Nature. The
material is unique with its innate variations in
shade and characteristics. No two installations will
ever look the same. Man-made products such as
ceramic and porcelain tiles tend to be repetitive in
appearance giving you the 'cookie cutter look'.
What is the best stone to use in my home?
Each type of natural stone has unique
characteristics that make them harder, softer and
shinier. Depending on the areas purpose and your
design preference some stone will work better than
others. Limestone for example does not work well in
high traffic areas. Our experienced and
knowledgeable staff will help guide you through our
vast inventory of natural stone and help you choose
the best stone for your needs.
How do I clean and maintain my natural stone
tiles and counter tops?
We recommend sealing your natural stone to help
prevent staining. Regular cleaning and immediately
blotting up spilled liquids will keep your natural
stone looking beautiful for years to come. Clean
your natural stone with warm water and a
non-abrasive, clear, non-acidic cleaner. For more
information about natural stone care, please visit
the resource section of our website.
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