GRANITE // QUARTZ // STONE

Granite is an 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. It is 100% natural and is available in a countless array of colors, patterns, and textures. Granite is ideal for kitchen countertops, tub surrounds, and other heavily used surfaces. It is typically heat resistant up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, however we recommend using trivets on any type of surface. Granite is easy to maintain with mild household cleaners and should be sealed annually. Sealing granite does not need to be done by a professional – it is as simple as spraying the stone sealer on and wiping it off.

Marble is a metamorphic rock found in the mountainous regions of Italy, Spain and India and China.  It is a 100% natural and luxurious surface that offers unmatched warmth, beauty, and sophistication. The one-of-a-kind slabs can have veining that range from subtle to distinctive and are available in a range of colors from white, cream, brown, gray and black. It is recommended for bathrooms, fireplace surrounds, hearths, and vanities. Marble is comprised of calcite crystals which make it vulnerable to mild acids which may etch and patina the stone. 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 which can be done on your own with a stone sealer. It is as simple as spraying the solution on and wiping it off.

Quartz is an engineered 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 and are available from various manufacturers around the world. Quartz is a durable, strong product that does not require sealing. Most engineered stones are stain-resistant but are not heat proof, chemical proof or fracture proof. It is recommended for kitchens, bathrooms and other heavily used surfaces. Repairs may be more difficult than with natural stones. 

Architectural Justice carries Cambria, Silestone and Caesarstone plus our own exclusive quartz line – AJ Quartz.

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. While onyx is fragile, the decorative appeal is perhaps unsurpassed by any other material. A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to maintaining all stones. Use trivets, coasters and cutting boards. Clean with mild soap and water. Onyx should be sealed periodically but does not need to be done by a professional – it is as simple as spraying with stone sealer and wiping it off.

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that is non-porous. It is highly heat, stain, chemical and bacteria resistant and is a good choice for many applications.  Unlike other stones, soapstone won’t absorb stains and discolorations, so it simply doesn’t require sealers. 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 enhances the stone’s beauty.

This sedimentary stone has beautiful veining characteristics and has been used for centuries.  The porous nature of the stone requires care as staining and scratching may occur over time.  It is recommended for vertical applications like fireplace surrounds and limited use in heavily used areas. A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to maintaining all stones.  Use trivets, coasters and cutting boards. Clean with mild soap and water. Travertine will need to be sealed annually. Sealing a stone surface is as simple as applying the solution and wiping it off.