Natural Stone Countertops

Formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the earth’s surface granite is composed mostly of quartz and feldspar with a hint of mica and minerals. This felsic intrusive igneous rock is known for its admirable durability, the only stone harder than granite is the diamond. Resistant to moister, heat, stain, and scratch; granite became one of the most popular stones for home improvement projects. With thousands of colors to choose from and an endless design of veining patterns you are certain to find the perfect slab that grasps your glance.

Also known as engineered countertops, quartz is a composite material made of a combinaticrushed granite bonded together by resin.

Everyone loves marble for its natural delicacy, attractive veining and stunning color options. Marble is derived from limestone and is metamorphosed forming an exclusive crystalline structure. The unique beauty and opulence will add that desired elegance to your home. Although porous and gentle, marble has been used for centuries, and to this day it is considered one of the most luxurious stones. The timeless beauty of the artistic design and colors will always be a symbol of sophistication.

Extreme heat and ultimate pressure to tectonic compression of orogenic belts converts sandstone into a quartzite. Even though granite is known to be the second hardest stone in the world, recent studies have proved quartzite to be harder than granite. This exceptional stone has the shades and shimmer of the sandstone, along with endurance and luxuries of granite, and the attractive veining of marble. Quartzite is environmentally friendly and can be installed almost anywhere – kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor patios, pools, and even water features.

Dating back to the Second Dynasty of Egypt, onyx was used to create pottery, jewelry, and hard stone carvings. Onyx is formed in caves as stalactites and stalagmites drip to form this precious stone. It is cryptocrystalline, consisting of fine intergrowths of silica minerals quartz and manganite. It is known for its natural bands of colors swimming vividly through the admirable translucency of the stone. Onyx is truly a stunning premium surface countertop, it is certain to add a touch of exquisite opulence to any kitchen, bar, or bathroom.

Slate is considered the finest grained foliated metamorphic rock derived from the original shale-type sedimentary rock composed of clay or volcanic ash. Slate is a heavy duty product, waterproof and stain resistant popular in both indoor and outdoor installations lasting for hundreds of years. Colors range from rusty earth tones, to modern shades of gray making it an excellent option for either traditional or contemporary designs. As a natural resource it offers many environmental benefits, consider slate as your new countertop.

The distinctive flecks and unique patterns make limestone a desired selection. Versatile and appealing limestone made its way from historical artifacts to present day penthouses and even mountain cottages. Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of the mineral calcite which comes from marine organisms. Deep below the earth’s surface underneath the sea floor, the decomposition of deceased marine animals is absorbed. Over thousands of years and with intense levels of pressure, limestone deposits are formed. This amusing stone is quite durable and in comparison to many other stone, it is conveniently low maintenance making an excellent countertop product.

Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs for example the Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park. Not only is travertine quarried here in the US, there are also numerous quarries all over the world especially Turkey, Italy, and Peru. Travertine fibrous appearance and comes in white, tan, cream, rusty, red, and even violet color variety. Travertine countertop finish can come in your taste: honed, polished, leathered or even tumbled depending on what statement you would like to express. This quiet natural beauty brings a sense of luxury to your home along with warmth and serenity.

Composed mostly of the mineral talc and rich in magnesium, soapstone is formed in areas where the tectonic plates are subducted reaching its perfect formation by heat and pressure with influx of fluids, however without melting. This intriguing rock is admired for the silky soapy sensation under the fingertips, and the deep distinctive color when treated with mineral oil. Soapstone is naturally non-porous and undoubtedly resistant to stain, heat, acids, and even chemicals. If you are looking to add an authentic piece of nature to your kitchen, Soapstone is the answer.