Q: What is granite?

A: Granite is a natural stone, formed many millions of years ago when molten rock from the center of the earth's core was pushed towards the surface. Granite's extreme hardness, which approaches that of diamonds, makes it an uncommonly durable surface. It has a natural beauty which makes it appealing when used as countertop or other surfaces within the home. Granite's natural beauty endures forever. Nations through the ages have chosen granite to memorialize their significant achievements. You can be sure that the granite you choose will stand the test of time and provide many years of enjoyment and service in your home.

 

Q: I have heard that granite has small cracks and pits in it. What are these?

A: Fissures occur naturally in many stone types. The term "fissure" is used commercially in the stone industry to describe a visible separation along inter-crystalline boundaries. This separation may start and stop within the face of the stone or extend through an edge. A fissure differs from a crack in that it is a naturally occurring feature of the stone. ALL granites contain some degree of fissure. Some contain more than others. Since fissures occur naturally in all granites they are not considered a flaw. Countertops will not be replaced due to the presence of fissures.

Pitting of the countertop surface, particularly in granite, is a commonly seen characteristic of natural stone. Granites are made up of several different minerals, each mineral having a different hardness. Granites contain Quartz, Feldspar, Biotite, Amphibole, ferrous titanium oxides, and other mineral combinations. On the Mohs scale, diamonds are the hardest mineral with a rating of 10. Quartz and Feldspar have a hardness of 6.5 - 7 and are very durable. Biotite (small, black minerals found through the slab) on the other hand are very soft (2.5) and can flake easily. All true granites have Biotite in their composition. Because Biotite is relatively soft and flaky, the first few layers can be removed during the polishing process. The pits do not make the granite less durable or otherwise inferior, and do not in themselves qualify a slab for replacement. Pits are common in all granites and should be expected when dealing with Natural Stone. Countertops will not be replaced due to pitting in the surface of any granite countertop.

 

Q: Will my granite match the sample I saw in the store I purchased the countertops from?

A: If you are purchasing your countertops directly from Southeast Stone you will be shown a slab of material from the lot that your job will be cut from. Your finished project will match very closely to what you viewed. You may request to visit our facility and view the slab or have a digital picture sent to you for approval. Slab viewings are done by appointment so please call in advance if possible.