What is natural stone?
Nature has taken millions of years to create the marvel of natural stones which is clearly unmatched by any other building material so far in strength, durability, beauty and stunning colors. The difference in natural stone is due to geological formation of stones in various regions of this planet Earth. Granite is an Igneous rock, found deepest in the Earth’s crust. Formed by cooling and solidification of molten rocks. Granite is second in Hardness to Diamond. Marble, Onyx & Slate are Metamorphic rocks, formed when chemically active fluids, pressure and heat comes in contact with deeply buried rock. The beautiful veining pattern present in stone is a result of metamorphic heat. Limestone, Sandstone & Travertine are Sedimentary rocks, found on the outside crust of the Earth, weathered and buried under sediments, and are bonded over time to form these beautiful stones.
Natural stone has many uses. And different types of stone have areas where they are better used. For kitchen countertop granite, marble (honed or leathered), or a schist is a good choice whereas limestone or travertine (especially unfilled) is not so good. Almost any natural stone can be used for a fireplace surround, mantel or hearth. Also for furniture pieces (night stand tops, buffet, vanities, tables, etc). Stone can also be used for trim work (baseboard, door molding, thresholds, etc). For interior floors again most anything goes, but high traffic areas (especially commercial areas) should avoid some of the softer stones. The bigger issue is that at entry ways or exterior use a polished surface will be slippery when wet and a honed or textured surface will be much better at providing traction for those walking on it in the winter. Good mats in the entry way are also important for not tracking grit in on to the floor. Showers and tub deck can also be done out of natural stone. Pret
