If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, you’ve probably considered using natural stone countertops. They are beautiful, durable, and add an elegant touch to any home. But have you ever wondered where natural stone countertop slabs come from? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the origins of these stunning materials.
Granite
Granite is one of the most popular natural stone countertop materials. It is a type of igneous rock that is formed from magma deep beneath the Earth’s surface. Granite is extracted from quarries all over the world, including Brazil, India, and China. The granite blocks are cut from the quarry and then transported to factories where they are cut into slabs using powerful saws. The slabs are then polished to create the glossy finish that is so characteristic of granite countertops.
Marble
Marble is another popular natural stone countertop material. It is a metamorphic rock that is formed from limestone under intense heat and pressure. Like granite, marble is extracted from quarries all over the world, including Italy, Greece, and Turkey. The marble blocks are cut from the quarry and then transported to factories where they are cut into slabs using saws. The slabs are then polished to create the glossy finish that is characteristic of marble countertops.
Quartz
Quartz is a unique natural stone countertop material in that it is not actually a “natural” stone. Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone, which is made up of 93% quartz particles and 7% resin. The quartz particles are mined from quarries all over the world, including the United States, Brazil, and Madagascar. Once the quartz particles are mined, they are combined with resin and other materials to create an engineered stone slab. The slabs are then cut and polished to create the finished product. Quartz =/= Quartzite.
Quartzite
Here is where it gets tricky. Quartzite is a natural stone countertop material that is similar to granite in terms of its durability and strength. It is a metamorphic rock that is formed from sandstone under intense heat and pressure. Quartzite is primarily mined in Brazil, India, and the United States. Once the quartzite blocks are extracted from the quarry, they are cut into slabs using saws. The slabs are then polished to create the glossy finish that is characteristic of quartzite countertops.
It’s worth noting that quartzite is sometimes confused with quartz, which is an engineered stone material made from quartz particles and resin. However, quartzite is a completely natural stone material, while quartz is a manufactured material. Additionally, quartzite tends to be more durable and resistant to heat and scratches than quartz, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops.
Soapstone
Soapstone is a natural stone countertop material that is becoming increasingly popular. It is a metamorphic rock that is formed from talc under intense heat and pressure. Soapstone is primarily mined in Brazil, Finland, and the United States. Once the soapstone blocks are extracted from the quarry, they are cut into slabs using saws. The slabs are then polished to create the matte finish that is characteristic of soapstone countertops.
Natural stone countertop slabs come from quarries all over the world. Granite, marble, and soapstone are extracted from quarries as blocks, which are then cut into slabs using saws. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are made from engineered stone, which is created by combining quartz particles with resin and other materials. Regardless of which natural stone material you choose, you can be sure that your countertops will add beauty and value to your home. Schedule an appointment with the Tops Solid Surface design team today to discuss your countertop remodel needs!