And then there is quartz countertops which have also risen in popularity in recent years as a viable alternative to both granite and marble options.
Is it marble or granite.
Because quartz slabs are manufactured they tend to have a fairly uniform color and consistency throughout with little variation in the patterns and textures.
Marble and granite long lasting and nonporous marble and granite mortars and pestles provide a very hard base for grinding spices seeds and nuts as well as a smooth surface for cleaning.
If it is natural stone no two areas of the stone will look exactly alike.
Marble for example is elegant in appearance while granite offers a more natural look.
Last updated on december 20 2019.
In the case of slabs sold for countertops there are many different minerals and stones sold as either granite or marble because they contain similar composition and characteristics.
Quartz granite and marble are three of the best and most popular countertop options on the market.
It is formed out of limestone that is subjected to intense pressure and heat due to tectonic shifting in the earth s crust.
Granite is a much tougher stone and will stand up to more wear and tear than marble will be able to.
Granite is the more durable stone but both granite and marble are porous meaning liquids that spill on them especially if the stones are left untreated can seep into the stone and cause stains.
Marble is another beautiful natural stone.
In addition to being less high maintenance and more durable than its natural stone counterparts i e marble and granite easy to clean quartz surfaces make it ideal for busy families who have.
It is far less common than granite especially in kitchens but it creates an elegant high end look.
Marble is notoriously more difficult to maintain than granite which explains why many kitchen and remodeling experts recommend against it.
If you want the technical details marble is a metamorphic rock formed from recrystallized carbon.
Every slab of granite or marble is unique.
Commercial graniteis an igneous or metamorphic stone that is mainly comprised of silica feldspar mica and quartz.
Although the beauty of marble and granite can be debated the toughness of the two stones cannot.
Granite and marble are the most popular choices when it comes to natural stone countertops.
It simply means that you will have to make a greater effort to take care of marble.
This is not to discourage you from purchasing marble.
There are pros and cons to using each material so it s just a matter of deciding what s right for your needs as well as your budget.