Granite

Granite is defined as an igneous rock composed of 25%-35% quartz and over 50% potassium and sodium rich feldspars with a common mineral  of less than 20% usually muscovite (clear mica)and biotite (iron bearing mica).  Lighter colored granites are the average composition of the continental crust while darker granites are more likely associated with or influenced by nearby oceanic composition stone.  There are three to four basic mineral components to granite, Quartz, Orthoclase, Feldspar, Plagioclase Feldspar, and Dark Accessory Minerals (Iron and Magnesium).  Granite on the Mohs Scale has a hardness rating between H=6 and H=7.

Granite is an excellent choice for kitchen countertops, floors, and other heavily used surfaces.  While some synthetic surfaces scratch easily and melt under hot cookware, granite resists heat.  Granite is also one of the most bacteria-resistant kitchen surfaces, and it is not affected by citric acid, coffee, tea, alcohol, or wine.   Because of its exceptional strength, granite is also well suited for exterior applications such as cladding, pavers, and curbing.