NATURAL STONE & QUARTZ

Granite is an igneous rock, formed by the cooling and solidifying of molten materials, composed chiefly of quartz and feldspar. Granite is one of the hardest surfaces on earth.

• 100% natural
• Each slab is one of a kind
• Available in a countless array of colors, patterns and textures
• Is available in honed, polished and leather surfaces

DURABILITY

• One of the hardest dimension stone types; scratch resistant
• Typically heat resistant up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, however we recommend using trivets on any type of surface
• Most can be exposed to direct sunlight, unlike quartz

MAINTENANCE

• Easy to maintain with mild household cleaners.
• Most natural granite should be sealed annually*

*Sealing granite does not need to be done by a professional.  This can simply be done by referring to the easy directions on the sealant.  It is a matter of cleaning the surface, spraying the sealer and wiping it off.

BEST USED FOR

• Kitchen countertops, tub surrounds, outdoor spaces and other heavily used surfaces

BOTTOM LINE:   If you are drawn to granite, it is a perfect choice that will offer a timeless, high-end look ideal for every style.

Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when limestone is buried and heated to a pliable state.  The distinctive grey veins are the layers of the original limestone as they are swirled and pressed together.

• 100% natural
• One of a kind slabs can have veining that range from subtle to distinctive
• Available in a range of colors like white, cream, brown, gray and black

DURABILITY

• Marble is comprised of calcite crystals which make it vulnerable to mild acids which may etch and patina the stone
• Dolomitic (Dolomite) marble contains a small amount of magnesium making it a little slower to etch
• Sealing doesn’t make marble any less prone to etching

MAINTENANCE

• A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to maintaining marble.  Use trivets, coasters and cutting boards. Clean with mild soap and water or use cleaning products specific for cleaning marble.  Marble should be sealed periodically.*

*Sealing marble does not need to be done by a professional.  This can simply be done by referring to the easy directions on the sealant.  It is a matter of cleaning the surface, spraying the sealer and wiping it off.

BEST USED FOR

• Bathrooms, fireplace surrounds, hearths, and vanities

BOTTOM LINE:   If you can embrace the patina and minor imperfections marble gains over the years, consider marble.  There is no comparison to the beauty of marble.

Quartzite is a hard, metamorphic rock which was originally sandstone. Sandstone is converted into quartzite when the sand grains are are compressed and fused together.

• 100% natural
• One of a kind marble-like appearance
• Available in a range of colors, patterns and translucence

DURABILITY

• Quartzite is a durable stone and an excellent choice for frequently used surfaces
• We recommend using trivets, coasters and cutting boards on any type of surface

MAINTENANCE

• To maintain, clean with mild soap and water
• Quartzite should be sealed annually*

*Sealing quartzite does not need to be done by a professional.  This can simply be done by referring to the easy directions on the sealant.  It is a matter of cleaning the surface, spraying the sealer and wiping it off.

BEST USED FOR

• Recommended for countertops, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces

BOTTOM LINE:   If you like the timeless look of marble but need a more durable stone for frequently used surfaces, quartzite is an excellent choice.

Engineered Quartz is a man-made product generally made up of 93% natural quartz and 7% resin and pigments.  The price range is comparable to mid to high range natural stones and is a nice alternative.

• Engineered stones are consistent from slab to slab
• Available from various manufacturers around the world
• It is comparable to mid to high range natural stones but can look less natural
• Can be used in combination with natural stones

DURABILITY

• It is a durable, strong product that does not require sealing
• Most engineered stones are stain-resistant
• Is not heat proof, chemical proof or fracture proof.  Edges are prone to chipping or cracking and are difficult to repair than with natural stones

MAINTENANCE

• To maintain, clean with mild soap and water. As with natural stones, do not use bleach, cleansers or any abrasive pads

BEST USED FOR

• Kitchens, bathrooms and other heavily used surfaces
• Not recommended for use outdoors or around fireplaces

BOTTOM LINE:   If you prefer a uniform look for your project, quartz or engineered products offer a nice alternative to other stones.

Architectural Justice carries Cambria, LG Viatera, Mont Quartz, MSI Quartz, and Silestone.

Onyx is a sedimentary rock, formed as stalactites and stalagmites in cave interiors. The formations contribute to the classic translucent property of most onyx varieties which make it perfect for backlighting.

DURABILITY

Is not heat proof, chemical proof or scratch proof. It is vulnerable to acids and bases, which will react with the minerals in onyx and causes etching.

MAINTENANCE

Onyx is extremely fragile, so it is recommended that you use trivets, coasters and cutting boards.  Clean with mild soap and water. Onyx will need to be sealed annually.*

*Sealing does not need to be done by a professional.  This can simply be done by referring to the easy directions on the sealant.  It is a matter of cleaning the surface, spraying the sealer and wiping it off.

BEST USED FOR

It is recommended for vertical applications like backsplashes and limited use in heavily used areas.

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that is non-porous.

DURABILITY

It is highly heat, stain, chemical and bacteria resistant.  Unlike other stones, soapstone won’t absorb stains and discolorations, so it simply doesn’t require sealers.

MAINTENANCE

Stains and blemishes are only skin deep and can be removed with gentle sanding. Applications of mineral oil will remove most scratches. Light gray soapstone darkens over time, accentuating its gray veining. Regular applications of mineral oil enhance its beauty.

BEST USED FOR

Kitchen countertops, outdoor spaces and other heavily used surfaces.

This sedimentary stone is comprised of shells, shell fragments and dissolved shells, creating beautiful veining characteristics.  

DURABILITY

The porous nature of the stone requires care as staining and scratching may occur over time.  

MAINTENANCE

Use trivets, coasters and cutting boards.  Clean with mild soap and water. Travertine and Limestones will need to be sealed annually.*

BEST USED FOR

It is recommended for vertical applications like fireplace surrounds and limited use in heavily used areas.