What is Granite?
The term “granite” is used to cover a group of related stones, all of which have their origin deep in the earth’s molten mantle. As this extremely hot liquid material rises and cools, it forms a crystalline, granular structure, hence the term granite. Granite and other granite-like stones are formed of hard minerals such as quarts, feldspar and mica, which are fused together into a very hard stone ideal for kitchen counters because its polish is resistant to household acids such as citrus and vinegar and is hard enough to resist scratching from knives and pots and pans.

Why is granite good for kitchen counters?
Because granite is very hard stone that’s formed at very high temperatures deep in the earth, its polish is not subject to etching by household acids or scratching by knives and pots and pans. It’s unaffected by typical kitchen heat such as hot pans, or spilled liquid.

Can granite be damaged?
Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots & pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances. Go to Stone Maintenance.

What is honed granite?
Strictly speaking, granite is called “honed” when the polishing process is halted just before a reflective shiny surface is achieved. This gives a softer, matte appearance to the stone. Cold Spring uses a special process called “Velvet” which enhances and deepens the colors well. Some fabricators can hone polished granite if they have a special equipment to remove the polished surface, but this can sometimes result in wheel marks from the polishing head.

I’m using granite in my entryway and I want to continue it outside, but I’m afraid it’s too slippery.
Flamed granite, which has very textured, non slippery surface, when treated with color-enhancing product, can be used to carry out your design.

My little sample of granite has pits on the surface-will I have these on my kitchen counters?
Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits-spaces between various mineral crystals. You don’t see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite eons ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material. A product of nature cannot be expected to look manmade.

Can I cut on my granite countertop?
Only if you want to ruin your good knives.Granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly, if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.

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