Granite

White granite slabs are high in white quartz and feldspar (opaque white) minerals. There are several varieties of white granite available, such as Moon White, Bianco Antico, and River White.

Due to there being quartz in all-natural granite, black granite slabs are actually a deep, dark grey. Varieties can come flecked with other colours, like gold and silver, and include Black Galaxy, Black Pearl, and Uba Tuba.

Red and brown granite slabs are essentially a darker variation of natural pink granite. These types of granite often feature specs of milky and opaque white. Varieties include New Venetian Gold, African Juparaná, and Archipelago Red.

Popular in Australia, varieties of blue granite slab include Azul Tango, Sidney Blue, and Blue Fantasy.

Green granite slabs are composed primarily of certain green feldspars. Varieties include Anemone, Atlantic Green, and Najran Emerald.

Most grey granite slabs feature many flecks of various colours, yet their neutral primary shade make them highly adaptable in terms of application. Varieties include New Caledonia, Steel Grey, and Albero.

Granite stone slabs can be polished, honed, brushed, flamed, caressed and bush hammered, allowing for a great variance in surface appearance and texture.

High-quality granite slabs offer several advantages for various applications in Australia. Here are some of them:

Granite is an extremely hard and dense natural stone, making it highly resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and daily wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and commercial spaces.

Granite is relatively easy to maintain and clean. It is highly stain-resistant and does not absorb liquids easily, reducing the risk of discoloration or staining. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water is usually sufficient to keep it looking pristine.

Granite has excellent heat-resistant properties, allowing it to withstand hot pots, pans, and other heated items without cracking, scorching, or discoloration. This makes it an excellent choice for kitchen countertops and surfaces near heat sources.

Granite offers a wide range of colours, patterns, and natural variations, allowing for unique and visually appealing designs. Each slab has its own distinct veining, swirls, and speckles, making it a one-of-a-kind natural material.

With proper care and maintenance, high-quality granite slabs can last for decades without losing their lustre or developing significant wear and tear. This durability makes granite a long-lasting investment for both residential and commercial properties.

The use of high-quality granite slabs can potentially increase the resale value of a property, as they are considered a desirable and luxurious feature in homes and commercial spaces.

Granite has a very low porosity, which means it is less susceptible to absorbing liquids and stains compared to other natural stones like marble or limestone.

The are a few key steps to consider when choosing a granite stone for an application:

The first step is to determine the intended usage (countertops, floors, etc.) and required thickness.  Then evaluate colour, pattern, and finish options - polished for glossy, honed for matte, textured for slip resistance. Consider maintenance needs as darker colours show smudges easier. A gray granite sample can help confirm how the stone’s colour and pattern will read under the intended lighting.

It's also worth inspecting slabs for quality and consistency. Factor in your budget as prices vary. Visit showrooms to see and touch slabs in person. Consult professionals like designers or contractors if needed for guidance.  Block granite may also be specified where a solid piece is required before the stone is cut and finished for its final application.

There are a variety of other high-quality slab materials available that can work well when integrated with granite including limestone and porcelain. For example, you could use granite tiles on the kitchen floor, to complement a limestone countertop. For porcelain, you could consider installing a porcelain backsplash in a bathroom alongside a granite vanity top.