QUARTZQuartz is a man-made engineered stone made by combining around 90% ground quartz (a natural hard mineral) with 8-10% resins, polymers, and pigments, which forms a very hard granite-like surface. The appearance depends on how the quartz is ground: coarsely ground quartz produces a flecked appearance, while finely ground quartz produces a smooth look. Because it's an engineered stone, quartz is durable, non-porous, and mostly stain and crack resistant. It also does not require sealing or resealing, and is easy to clean.
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GRANITEGranite is a naturally occurring, igneous rock that contains at least 20% quartz by volume, but also some mica and feldspar. It’s mined from around the world, including quarries in India, Brazil, Norway, Italy, China, and the U.S.A. Because it is a natural stone, each slab is unique in its pattern. It is hard, durable, and scratch-resistant. However, granite does require regular chemical resealing to keep it resistant to stains, heat, and water, as it is a semi-porous material. It is relatively easy to clean and comes in a multitude of colors and vein patterns.
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MARBLEMarble is a natural, metamorphic rock containing a high concentration of calcite or dolomite. The word is derived from Greek meaning to sparkle or gleam. There are many variations of marble based on the minerals which give it color and veining. Marble varies in the size of the grains and the amount of veining, so stone quarried from different parts of the world have a unique appearance. Fine-grained marble tends to be more consistent in color. Heavier grains produce more variation in color. Marble is porous and requires regular sealing and maintenance, but in exchange, you’ll receive elegance and beauty enjoyed by royalty and the rich the world over.
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SOAPSTONESoapstone is a naturally occurring, non-porous stone. It is also called steatite, and is a metamorphic rock containing talc, which means it has a softer consistency than some other materials. Unlike marble or granite, you won't have to worry about liquids sipping into the stone and staining it. Because it is a natural stone, each slab is unique, giving you a rare piece that is unique to your space. Soapstone is fairly easy to clean, and does not require regular sealing, but does require regular oiling to maintain its natural sheen. It is also a heat resistant material.
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