Granite

What is it?

Granite is an igneous rock, formed underground when magma (molten rock) cools and solidifies. Igneous rocks are sometimes called ‘fire rocks’ because of their formation in the intense heat of the earth’s core. Granite is the most commercially viable and abundant igneous rock. Much of it was formed in the pre-Cambrian age 4.5 million years ago but, despite its age, it’s really kept its looks!

What are its main advantages?

Granite is the king of kitchen worktops. It is the most scratch and stain resistant of natural stones, and its incredible heat-resistance means that nothing is cooler when the heat gets dished out.

What are its disadvantages?

There are fewer colours to choose from than with marble and engineered stone. On floors, it can be cold underfoot.

What colours are available?

From greys, greens and blacks to golds, browns and whites.

What finishes are available?

Granite can be finished in more ways than any other stone. It can be highly polished, take a matt finish (honed), produced to look aged (anticato), or given a satin finish (satinato).