Whether you have granite flooring, a granite countertop, or are considering getting granite, there are some interesting facts about granite that you might not be aware of. Keep reading to learn all about them and then reach out to Fuller Stone Care at 310-944-9099 if you would like to learn more about granite repair, maintenance, and cleaning.
What is Granite?
Let us start at the very basic end: What is granite? It is one of the most widely used and recognizable natural stones in the world. It is often used on countertops and is used in bathrooms, kitchens, and any other room with a counter. It can also be used as flooring, walls, and backsplashes in lobbies, bars, and other areas. It has been used as long as we have had recorded history, so there is quite a bit known about it and what makes it up, how to best use it, and how to maintain it.
Granite is a Plutonic Rock
Many people assume that this means that it is from Pluto, but that is not quite it. Being plutonic means that granite is created deep under the earth. The earth’s crust is primarily made up of granite.
Granite is Rich in Feldspar
Look closely at your granite countertop or flooring. Do you see tiny flecks or grains of white within the stone? Granite is actually named for those flecks, as it comes from the Latin word “granum” which means course grain. Interestingly, those flecks are not granite – they are made of a mineral known as feldspar. It is found in about 60% of all stone on earth. In fact, it is the most abundant mineral on the planet.
Granite is Naturally Strong and Long-Lasting
When it comes to natural minerals, diamond is the hardest on the surface of the earth. On the most accepted scale of mineral hardness, it has a ten – the highest designation on the scale. Granite is between a six and a seven. It is harder than soapstone, slate, marble, limestone, and travertine. It is around the same hardness as sandstone and natural quartz.
Granite is the Foundation of the Statue of Liberty
Granite is so strong, and so trustworthy, that it was chosen to be the material used to build the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty. When installed, the French wanted to ensure that the statue would last for many millenniums and granite was an obvious choice to get there.
Keep in mind that just because granite is strong, that does not mean that it cannot be damaged. That does not mean that it does not require maintenance. If you need assistance, contact Fuller Stone Care at 310-944-9099.