Granite and Marble

Both marble and granite tiles are a beautiful addition to any edifice. They both serve to enhance the quality of the home. There is a distinct difference between the two, however. Despite the fact that both are stones and quarried from deep in the earth, they do not share many properties. For instance, granite is an Igneous rock. It begins its evolution as molten lava far below the earth’s surface. As the mass cools, crystals form. The faster the mass cools, the smaller the crystals. Quartz, feldspar, and mica are the primary minerals granite is composed of.

Marble, on the other hand, begins to form from sediment, which is comprised of animal skeletons, shells, plants, and silt. The deep-water sediment begins to harden and solidify as the layers and pressure continue to build. After millions of years, the sediment forms into the stones we know as marble, limestone, travertine, and onyx. Calcium is the main component of marble, making this stone susceptible to damage from acids, including vinegar and citrus.

Granite is the harder stone of the two and typically recommended for use in kitchens. Due to the low (or no) calcite levels in granite, the stone is impervious to acids. Additionally, granite does not scratch or stain and is resistant to heat.

Both stones can make beautiful additions to any home when used in the proper room. It’s not impossible to use marble in the kitchen, and many have. However, it is more impractical for today’s kitchen. In other areas of the house, however, marble may be just what you need to turn a ho-hum room into a conversation starter!