Granite has been considered one of the toughest and desirable stones to be found on the earth since ages. What could be the reason behind its toughness and demand? Its strength or its hard composition? The reason could also be its method of formation. That mystery can be resolved once you know the top facts about granite. There are many things that make it not only one of the toughest stones but also highly desirable among designers and home builders alike.
Here are some fascinating granite facts that explain why it’s one of the most durable stones on Earth.
Granite is a Natural Stone
Granite is a purely natural stone extracted from the mountains. There is no role of humans in the formation of granite slabs. Other than that, this natural stone has rare colors and patterns. It gives them uniqueness and you will hardly see two granite stones of the same look. Moreover, this stone is preferred by home designers and architects in home remodeling.
One of the lesser-known facts about granite is that it forms naturally over millions of years from slowly cooled magma.
Origin Of Its Name
An interesting fact about granite is the origin of its name. The word granite is derived from a Latin word, “granum” (singular; grana), which means grains. This name is given to granite due to its granular patterns. The unique grainy structure is what defines granite. You rarely see such patterns in any of the other natural stones, giving granite a sense of uniqueness.
Has Endured Through Centuries
One of the coolest facts about granite is its long history. Ancient people used to carve temples and monuments from it, like the statues of ancient Egypt or the mighty columns of Rome. Even today, granite finds its place in our homes, city buildings, and memorials. Many of those properties are still standing tall and strong. In the current era, granite is still unchanged, enduring, and strong.
Make Up the Planet’s Tall Cliffs
Granite is famous for making up the planet’s tallest cliffs which include K2, Great Trango Tower and Kanchenjunga. These strong and massive cliffs speak for the durability of granite. The large pieces of granite extracted from these mountains create big slabs. That’s the reason you can find big granite slabs for high-scale building projects as well.
Is Uniquely Extracted
One of the most fun facts about granite is its extraction process. You might think granite slabs are cutted from the big mountains using very sharp tools. But that is far from the truth. The fact is if you cut granite stone using heavy tools, you can easily break it into pieces. The extraction process in reality includes mining of granite to its careful cutting. After cutting the different slabs are separated based on their colors and patterns.
Hardest Natural Stone
Hardness is one of the most interesting facts about granite. You can get a granite wall, kitchen countertop or island without worrying about damage. This is guaranteed by its hardness based on the Mohs scale. This scale ranks the hardness of natural stones based on their ability to endure cracks or scratches. So, granite stands out in this regard since it is highly resistant to both of these.
Cutting It Is Hard
Granite is tough because of its strong composition. Even many of the knives can’t cut it. If you try to cut granite slabs using blades, you might fail to do so. That’s because most blades get dull without even cutting the granite. You will need special tools like diamond-tipped saw blades or water-cooled diamond abrasives to cut through it smoothly. However, continuous knife attacks can scratch your countertop, which requires a lot of effort to restore.
Can Break Or Chip
If you think granite can never break or chip, then you might be wrong. Granite is indeed highly enduring but still cracks or chips can be expected from it. However, that only happens if you don’t take care of it or put heavy and sharp items on it. Otherwise, hardness is one of the most realistic facts about granite. In some cases, if the cracks appear, you can hire a professional who can fix it immediately.
Porous Surface
Granite has pores just like our skin. These pores are tiny and sometimes invisible to the naked eye. So, you don’t need to worry if you think the pores can make granite countertop or floor look ugly. However, the pores can accumulate dirt particles, leading to stains and damage. So, you will need proper sealing if you want to install this stunning ston to the homes. Sealing is necessary once or twice a year to keep the pores blocked.
Resistant To Weathering And Erosion
Among the many facts about granite, one of the most interesting is its resistance to weathering and erosion. The reason behind that is their exceptional hardness. The mineral composition also forms a firm structure that is highly resistant to damage. Another granite fact is, even after decades, granite erodes far more slowly than softer rocks, allowing it to form towering cliffs, rugged mountains, and long-lasting monuments that stand the test of time.
Is Naturally Radioactive
Granite is considered naturally radioactive since it has trace amounts of uranium. Any particle that is radioactive is supposed to decay over time. But there is nothing to worry about the small amount of uranium. Even the soil in which you plant your vegetables also has some quantity of uranium. It means the minute amount available in granite cannot cause any harm. But a fact is a fact and that is; granite is radioactive.
Has Rarest Natural Colors
The composition of granite gives it unique colors. A surprising number of people don’t know the most basic facts about granite, like how its color depends on mineral content. Each granite slab might contain different amounts of minerals, giving it a distinct color. For example, some of the granite particles can give it a beige or milky appearance, e.g., quartz. Moreover, a red-colored granite can be due to orthoclase feldspar.
Here are some of the minerals giving different hues to granite:
Quartz: Usually clear or gray, it gives granite a light, glassy appearance.
Orthoclase Feldspar: Pink or reddish in color, it’s the main source of granite’s warm tones.
Plagioclase Feldspar: White or gray, it adds cooler, softer shades to the rock.
Muscovite Mica: Silvery or gold, it gives granite a subtle sparkle.
Hornblende: Dark green to black, it deepens the overall tone of the stone.
Magnetite and iron-rich minerals: Add tiny metallic or rusty-colored flecks.
Adds Value To The Property
The best thing about granite countertops, floors, and related elements is that they can increase the value of your property. Granite is a highly desirable material for home remodelers with its ultra-rare luxury looks. Other than that, this natural stone can add value to your home. This stone offers durability in addition to a premium look. It can help you to create spaces that are of great value when the time comes to sell.
Final Words:
Granite isn’t just a rock; it’s a creator of historical works, a builder’s dream, and a symbol of strength. Whether you’re hiking across granite peaks or sipping coffee on a granite countertop, remember: you’re touching something that has withstood time, fire, and pressure to be exactly where it is today. Once you know the interesting facts about granite, you will come to know that it is highly desirable and a strong natural stone. Ideal for all kinds of remodeling projects, i.e., homes, buildings, hotels, and more.
Interested in using granite for your next project? Explore all the granite designs available at SK Stones USA and call now to get a free expert consultation!
Read More: The Guide to Purchase Quartz Countertops from Quartz Suppliers
