What likelihood is there for someone to stop and look at their beautiful granite counter, and stopping to think of what it is, or how it got there? Granite is a familiar and extensively occurring kind of intrusive, igneous, felsic rock. It is typically found in the continental plates of the earth’s crust. How did this amazing, and decorative rock come to be? It is formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the earth’s crust.
The word granite comes from the Latin word, granum, a grain. This is in reference to its coarse, grain-like texture. Granite is 20% quartz by volume. The minerals that actually make up this rock are quartz, as mentioned, feldspar, mica, and typically hornblende. This rock can be many amazing colors and patterns, from pink, to grey, to sparkling white. The crystals that make up the granite can be easily seen by the naked eye. Granite does have multiple definitions, which sometimes causes confusion among scholars. The basic, learning definition is that it is a coarse, lightly-colored rock composed mainly of feldspars and quartz. The Petrologist’s definition is that it is a Plutonic rock, made up between 10 to 50% quartz and 65 to 90% alkali feldspar.
It is the best known igneous rock. Why is it so well-known? Simply put, millions of people see it in their homes and day-to-day lives. Granite can be used for:
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Counter tops, floor tile, bath tub decks, and table tops.
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It is also used as paving stone, decorative tiles, cemetery monuments, and fireplaces.
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Granite can be used for just about anything, you need only ask a granite supplier in your area
Granite is also the face of many famous formations. It graces the presidents depicted in the marvelous Mount Rushmore. The sheer granite cliffs of Yosemite Valley, CA inspire awe to many a tourist. Due to its high price, granite has lost popularity in its use as a building material. Most granite that is produced in the United States is from high quality deposits in: Georgia, New Hampshire, South Dakota, and Idaho.
What to Know about Granite in your own Home:
Some may think that having such a beautiful rock for their counters, tabletops and floors would require extra care. In reality, granite is amazing in its own host of ways. Granite resists most abrasions, which makes it ideal for busy households. It also bears a significant amount of weight, so if for any reason someone needs to be atop their granite counter, they need not fear it breaking. Like anything in the home, it can get dirty, but it cleans easily with mild soap and warm water. For the aspiring chef, cookware can go directly from the stove to the countertop, without causing any sort of damage. The best part of this beautiful rock is that it adds value to any home. Nearly anyone loves the site of polished granite. Consider this the next time you are in your own home, or that of a friend, and are greeted by the sparkling finish of granite.
