What is GRANITE?

Granite is classified as an igneous rock, and is formed by the cooling & crystallisation of lava, underneath the Earth's crust.

Granite predominantly consists of the following minerals:

• quartz
• mica
• feldspar
• plagioclase feldspar

The proportion and type of each mineral give Granite its unique appearance. Different conditions and mineral ingredients at each quarry site mean that each area produces an individually patterned and coloured stone.

Granite offers beauty, easy care and durability. Granite is the hardest stone after the diamond, with very dense grain, making it virtually impervious to stain. In most cases it is able to withstand weathering for centuries. It can be used to cut and chop, and rest hot pans on without damaging its surface finish. Its smooth dense structure also means that it provides few havens for bacteria, and is therefore ideally suited for kitchen worktops.

Granite is often found in upscale and sophisticated residences, palaces and hotels throughout the world due to its texture and luster. Natural stone provides the look and feel of elegance through a quality and strength that will never be reached by other materials.

In natural hard surfaces like granite, a certain amount of "movement" or grain is usually expected. Many people find this flow and blending of colours to be the most compelling reason for using genuine stone. 

Does granite have any use other than kitchen worktops?
Today, granite has very many applications in the commercial and domestic world including: tiles, wall cladding, flooring, kitchen worktops and splashbacks, bathroom surfaces, pub bar tops, restaurant tables and worktops, fire places, water features, headstones and gravestones.

Please read our Granite Care & Maintenance Guide