Granite

What is Granite?

The word granite comes from the Latin word “granum” in reference to its grain-like structure. Granite is an igneous rock and is formed from magma. This granite magma has many potential origins but it must intrude other rocks in its forming process. Most granite intrusions are emplaced at depth within the earths crust, usually greater than 1.5 Km to 50 Km depth within the thick continental crust.

Granite if formed when a metaphoric rock is melted, this becomes magma, granite will not be formed until the magma actually intrudes other rock, usually at extremely high temperatures when water or other volatiles act as a catalyst by lowering the solidus temperature of the rock.

Over thousands of years of earth movement, the granite has been pushed upwards forming huge mountains and ridges or the ice age has gouged great valleys exposing sheer rock faces.


			See Granite Gallery.

Modern uses of granite.

Granite is used extensively as a dimension stone in public buildings, monuments and domestic environments. Americas first railway was constructed to haul granite from the quarries to the Neponset River in the 1820s.

With the increase of acid rain, granite has begun to supplant marble as a monument material since it is much more durable. Polished granite is also a popular choice for kitchen countertops due to its high durability and aesthetic qualities.

Rough cut granite can be used for dry stone walling or it can be square cut for more intricate building work for external walls in houses and large constructions like bridges.

Why use granite in your kitchen?

There are many different colours, patterns and textures of granite, it is generally more dense than marble, hence it is less likely to stain. Granite is extremely hard wearing and very difficult to scratch, in most cases it will not be damaged by heat (see our care sheet for further information.) Once fitted, granite will not fade with sunlight, deteriorate with age, rot with water or lose it`s splendour and charm. Every granite slab is unique which gives you a unique and stylish kitchen.