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Natural Stone - The Perfect Stone
 Homeowners
are continually searching for new and exciting ways to upgrade their
home. At the same time, they long for materials that will last a
lifetime and never go out of style.
This quest for the perfect combination of durability and style leads
them to natural stone products. Natural stones are considered to be the
oldest building material known to man. The use of natural stone
materials add both permanence and elegance to modern construction. Any
natural stone or a combination of natural stones will enhance your
building space with an aesthetically pleasing image while providing a
facade of high performance with low maintenance.
By geological definition, there are hundreds of stone types. The
majority of stone applications will fall under one of five
commercial definitions: Granite, Marble, Limestone, Quartz-Based or
Slate.
Durability has made granite a long-time favorite for kitchen countertop
applications. Available in an array of iridescent colors and unique
patterns, granite is second only to diamond in terms of hardness. A
polished and smooth finished surface, that is resistant to scratching,
blistering, cracking and durable in heavy foot traffic areas, makes
granite the Ideal choice for other applications such as bathroom
vanities and flooring.
While the decision to use natural stone may be easy, choosing the right one
may not. That’s why it’s important to deal with a company that offers
advice and a large selection to choose from. A reputable company will
provide the expertise you need especially when it comes to the different
qualities of material available and will answer all of your questions
and turn your dream into reality. No matter which you choose, natural
stones will give your home a sense of permanence and luxury.
Majestic Granite with their newly designed showroom and design center
carries a variety of premium quality natural stone products, slabs,
tile and prefabricated granite countertops in addition to a full line of
porcelain & mosaic tile suitable for every application. Their line
includes granite, marble, travertine, limestone, slate, decorative
liners, medallions, metal & glass accents, porcelain & ceramic.
For more information, do not hesitate to consult with one of the sales
personnel to assist you in reaching your ultimate goal in enhancing your
home.
">Granite
As old as the earth itself, granite is one of the hardest and durable of
all building stones. It has been used as a
building material for major edifices throughout history, including the
Roman Pantheon. Similar to lava, granite is an igneous rock that begins
as liquid magma deep within the earth. In many cases, granite originates
from the underside of continents or pieces of ocean crust that are
melted by intense heat. The extreme pressure in the center of the earth
compresses the liquid magma, creating a very dense material with minimal
pores. These characteristics make granite’s surface tough and almost
impenetrable. Granite emerges at the surface of the earth after eons of
natural erosion has removed the overlying layers of older rock. Most
granite appears where deeply buried rocks are brought to the surface by
movements of the earth’s crust.
Eye-catching and functional, granite is a speckled stone that ranges in
color from absolute black to Bianco Portolo (salt & pepper white) – and
every color in between. The natural color variations result from a
mixture of minerals, including common materials found in ceramic or
porcelain, like feldspar, quartz and mica. Natural irregularities in the
interlocked minerals create a beautiful array of kaleidoscopic patterns.
Uses
• Interior and exterior
• Floors and walls
• Interior counter tops
• Exterior building facades
Types
• Polished: During production, a facet is put on each crystal at a
microscopic level– much as a jeweler would facet a diamond. The
resulting smooth surface allows light to refract in and out of the stone
in a parallel way. This enhances the visible sheen and gives the
appearance of depth.
• Honed: A smooth, non-reflective finish achieved by using acid to grind
the surface (available by special order only).
• Flamed (thermal): A rough surface created by applying a direct flame
source, such as a blowtorch, and burning off portions of the surface
minerals.
Special Considerations
• Color variations enhance the natural beauty of the stone. Inspect
multiple samples before selection to ensure satisfaction with colors and
patterns.
Maintenance
• Do clean with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most dirt.
• Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because many stones
are porous to some degree, excessive water may cause reactions such as
oxidation (rust), spalling, deterioration of dry veins, etc. “Special
Impregnating” sealers are recommended to avoid these problems.
• Do clean natural stones with “special stone cleaners”, “pH balanced
cleaners” or “neutral base cleaners.”
• Do not clean any natural stone with acidic cleaners, including (but
not limited to) vinegar or cleaners with “lemon” or “lime” on the label.
These products will abrade the polish from the stone. Sealers DO NOT
protect polished surfaces from these types of cleaners.
Marble
Known for its beauty and elegance, marble is a timeless classic. Throughout
the centuries, it was the material of
choice for artists and architects to create magnificent sculptures,
monuments, and buildings such as the Taj Mahal in India and the Greek
Parthenon. Inspired by such masterpieces of antiquity, architects and
designers of today use marble to add an aura of sophistication and
splendor to any space.
Marble is a metamorphic limestone. It begins as a sedimentary stone
consisting of seashells and the bones of sea creatures that have settled
to the ocean floor. Calcium in the sediment combines with carbon dioxide
in water to form calcium carbonate. High heat and pressure cause the
fossilized materials, along with its original carbonate minerals, to
crystallize and transform limestone into marble.
Like fingerprints, no two pieces of marble are exactly alike. Marble
varies in color and veining from stone to stone as a result of fissures
filled with minerals that are present during the stone’s formation. The
naturally occurring variations in
marble contribute to its distinctive appeal. Polishing achieves a patina
that further enhances the colors of all the trace elements.
Uses
• Interior and exterior in non-freeze/thaw environments
• Flooring
• Fireplaces
• Vanities
• Shower and tub surrounds
Types
• Polished: During production, a facet is put on each crystal at a
microscopic level – much as a jeweler would facet a diamond. The
resultant smooth surface allows light to refract in and out of the stone
in a parallel way. This enhances the visible sheen and gives the
appearance of depth and luster.
• Honed: Grinding the surface achieves a smooth, non-reflective finish.
• Tumbled Surface (ancient stones): An antique look achieved by
subjecting the stone to a tumbling process.
Special Considerations
• Consider the function of the area involved prior to selection. Marbles
range from 5-7.5 on the MOHS hardness scale. (Compare this with granite
stones used for landscaping, which range from 8-9 on the MOHS scale).
• Green and black colored marbles require a 100% solid epoxy adhesive as
they have a tendency to warp from water-based adhesives.
• Color variations are common and enhance the natural beauty of marble.
Be sure to inspect multiple samples of the stone before selection to
ensure satisfaction with colors and patterns.
Maintenance
• Do clean with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most dirt.
• Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because many stones
are porous to some degree, excessive water may cause reactions such as
oxidation (rust), spalling, deterioration of dry veins, etc. “Special
Impregnating” sealers are recommended to avoid these problems.
Travertine
Travertine is a unique stone rich with historical significance. The word travertine
comes from an old Roman name for Tivoli, a town in Italy where large
deposits of travertine exist. The brilliant beige stone, characterized
by irregular surfaces and edges, has been a principal building material
in Rome since the Roman Empire. Travertine clothed the exterior of the
Colosseum and was later favored by Michelangelo for his sculptures.
Travertine is a sedimentary rock that begins as limestone. Over time,
geological shifting forces the limestone deep within the earth. The
porous nature of limestone makes it a great liquid reservoir. Limestone
absorbs water from aquifers, which are enormous underground pools formed
by ice age melting. Heated by the earth’s inner core, the water rises as
steam, forming hot springs and geysers. This hot water dissolves the
limestone and brings it to the surface along with other granules from
below. If enough time transpires, mud beds consisting of limestone and
other
minerals cool and crystallize into solid travertine.
The cooling process results in the extraordinary small holes or cavities
while minerals in the stone create unique variations in color and
veining. These variations contribute to travertine’s natural beauty and
call to mind the ancient splendor of Imperial Rome.
Uses
• Interior and exterior
• Floors and walls
• Shower surrounds
• Fireplaces
• Vanities
Types
• Unfilled: Travertine with naturally occurring holes.
• Filled: Travertine with its naturally occurring holes filled with a
mixture of a hardener and dust obtained from the cutting and honing
process.
• Polished: During production, a facet is put on each crystal at a
microscopic level – much as a jeweler would facet a diamond. The
resultant smooth surface allows light to refract in and out of the stone
in a parallel way. This enhances the visible sheen and gives the
appearance of depth.
• Honed: A smooth, non-reflective finish achieved by grinding the
surface.
• Saw Cut: The untreated surface of a stone when it is first cut. The
surface is slightly rough
• Tumbled (ancient stones): An antique look achieved by rounded corners
and edges.
Special Considerations
• Color variations are common and enhance the natural beauty of
travertine. Be sure to inspect multiple samples of the stone before
selection to ensure satisfaction with colors and patterns.
Maintenance
• Do clean with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most dirt.
• Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because many stones
are porous to some degree, excessive water may cause reactions such as
oxidation (rust), spalling, deterioration of dry veins, etc. “Special
Impregnating” sealers
are recommended to avoid these problems.
Limestone
From Mayan temples to Parisian cathedrals, limestone has been an
indispensable building material throughout the ages. For centuries,
limestone has accentuated the elegance of French decor. Today, it is
still highly regarded by designers and architects, calling to mind
antique chateaux floors of France or regal monuments from around the
world.
Limestone is a sedimentary stone that consists of seashells and the
bones of sea creatures that have settled to the ocean floor. Calcium in
the sediment combines with carbon dioxide in the water to form calcium
carbonate, the basic structure of all limestone and marble. Limestone
contains subtle variations in color and veining as a result of minerals
that are present during formation. These naturally occurring variations
add to the distinctiveness and beauty of the stone.
Uses
• Interior and exterior installations
Types
• Polished: During production, a facet is put on each crystal at a
microscopic level – much as a jeweler would facet a diamond. The
resultant smooth surface allows light to refract in and out of the stone
in a parallel way. This enhances the visible sheen and gives the
appearance of depth and luster.
• Honed: Grinding the surface achieves a smooth, non-reflective finish.
Special Considerations
• Color variations are common and enhance the natural beauty of
limestone. Be sure to inspect multiple samples before selection to
ensure satisfaction with colors and patterns.
Slate
With subtle variations in color and texture, slate resonates warm undertones
and rustic charm.
A metamorphic rock, slate forms from the low-grade metamorphosis of the sedimentary rock, shale (“mudstone”). Like its precursor, slate is a
very fine-grained rock consisting of microscopic clay minerals combined
with microscopic quartz and calcite. Some slates also contain a few of
the minerals found in granite, resulting in iridescent or hard surfaces.
The alteration of shale by heat and pressure produces the pronounced
partings (cleavage) that give slate its layered characteristics.
Slate’s color originates from trace metals present during its formation.
The colors visible in most slates are the result of splitting the stone
along natural layers, exposing the metals to the atmosphere and allowing
them to oxidize (rust).
The natural color variations in slate enhance the beautiful details that
make each installation a unique showpiece.
Uses
• Interior and exterior flooring
• Walls
• Roofing materials
• Other special applications
Types
• Natural Cleft (ungauged / uncalibrated): Cutting along the natural
layers creates an uneven, undulating surface.
• Calibrated (gauged): Cutting each piece to a relatively uniform
thickness.
• Tumbled: Rounding edges and corners achieves an antique look.
Special Considerations
• Natural shade variations are inherent in slate. Be sure to inspect
multiple samples of the stone before selection to ensure satisfaction
with colors and patterns.
• Shaling (material splitting from the surface) is possible. This will
cease over time.
Maintenance
• Do clean slate with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most
dirt.
• Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because slate is
quite porous, excessive water may cause reactions such as oxidation
(rust), spalling, deterioration of dry veins, etc. “Special
Impregnating” sealers are recommended to avoid these problems.
• Do clean natural stones with “special stone cleaners”, “pH balanced
cleaners” or “neutral base cleaners.”
• Do not clean any natural stone with acidic cleaners, including (but
not limited to) vinegar or cleaners with “lemon” or “lime” on the label.
These products will abrade the polish from the stone. Sealers DO NOT
protect polished surfaces from these types of cleaners.
Ceramic / Porcelain
Ceramic tile is one of the oldest decorative finishing products known.
Ceramics dating back many centuries have been found along the banks of
the Tigris River in the Middle East. Once available to only the most
affluent, ceramic tile is considered to be one of the most fashionable
choices for floors, walls and countertops.
Ceramic tile is derived from mixtures of clay, porcelain, sand and
natural minerals that are shaped into tile and fired at high
temperatures. According to the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI), porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile made by the pressed
dust method. This process results in tile with a density so high that
water absorption is less than 0.5%. Recent innovations in production
technology have made more beautiful styles available than was previously
possible. For instance, those who like the appearance of natural stone
but also require maximum durability can now purchase ceramic tile that
emulates the look and feel of natural stone.
Uses
• Floor and walls
• Countertops
• Shower and tub surrounds
• Interior and exterior
Why Glazed Ceramic and Porcelain Tile?
• Variety: Ceramic and porcelain tile add value to any setting. Because
they are available in an extensive array of sizes, colors, patterns and
textures, they can satisfy almost any design preference.
• Investment: Ceramic and porcelain tile, considered permanent products,
are listed in the Real Estate Appraisal Guide as building products that
increase the value of a home.
• Durability: Ceramic and porcelain tile are durable and can be used in
many settings. In fact, through-body porcelain tile is durable enough to
be used for exterior as well as interior commercial applications.
• Stain-Resistance: Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the most
stain-resistant building products available. Most glazed ceramic tile is
completely stain proof.
• Color Permanent: Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the few
decorative finishing products that do not tend to fade or discolor with
sunlight.
• Dirt-Resistant: Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the easiest
decorative finishing products to maintain. Soil will simply lie on the
surface, permitting quick removal with a dust mop or cleanser.
• Hygiene: Because ceramic and porcelain tile are sanitary, they are
good choices for kitchens and bathrooms. They are also hypoallergenic,
given that odors, mold, mildew, dust, allergens and bacteria do not tend
to get trapped within them.
• Affordability: Thanks to modern technology, ceramic and porcelain tile
are now affordable options for most budgets.
Due to their inherent durability and broad applications, they are more
cost-effective than most alternative products.
Maintenance
While it is not necessary to seal glazed ceramic and porcelain tile, it
is always recommended that through-body tile and grout joints be sealed.
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