Category Archives: Natural Stone Countertops

Granite is the Ultimate World Traveler

Posted by ExquisiteStone on April 16, 2024

Granite, known for its durability, natural beauty, and versatile applications, is a widely used stone in construction and interior design. But have you ever wondered about the journey granite takes from the depths of the earth to your kitchen countertop or the facades of iconic buildings? In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of granite quarry processes, shedding light on the intricate steps involved in extracting, processing, and bringing this stunning natural resource to life.

Step 1: Geological Exploration

Experts study the earth’s crust to identify areas with granite deposits. These areas are meticulously surveyed, and once a suitable deposit is located, the quarrying process can commence.

Step 2: Site Preparation

Preparation involves clearing vegetation and the layer of soil and rock that covers the granite deposits. This process ensures access to the desired granite bedrock.

Step 3: Drilling and Blasting

Once the site is prepared, the next step involves drilling holes into the granite using specialized equipment. Explosive charges are then strategically placed in these holes to blast apart the granite. This process breaks the granite into manageable pieces that can be extracted.

Step 4: Extraction

The granite blocks created through blasting are extracted using cranes and loaders.

Step 5: Transport

The extracted granite blocks are loaded onto trucks and transported to processing facilities or storage yards.

Step 6: Cutting and Shaping

At the processing facility, the granite blocks are cut and shaped into various products. This step is a combination of art and science, with skilled craftsmen using diamond-tipped saws and other precision tools to create slabs, tiles, and custom pieces according to specifications.

Step 7: Polishing

After cutting, the granite surfaces are polished to reveal their natural luster and rich colors. This enhances the stone’s aesthetic appeal, making it ready for use in a variety of architectural and design applications.

Step 8: Quality Control

Before the granite products are shipped to their final destinations, they undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure the stone meets industry standards for strength, color consistency, and appearance.

Step 9: Distribution

Once the granite has passed quality control, it is distributed to suppliers, manufacturers, and construction projects worldwide.

The journey of granite from quarry to its final destination is a fascinating process that combines science, artistry, and precision. Granite quarry processes involve geological exploration, site preparation, drilling, blasting, extraction, transport, cutting, shaping, polishing, quality control, and distribution. This natural stone’s journey reflects the skill and dedication of those involved in the granite industry and its enduring appeal in architecture and design. The next time you admire a granite countertop or the exterior of a grand building, you can appreciate the incredible journey the stone has undertaken to become a part of our lives.

You Have Natural Stone Countertops, Now You Should Seal Them

Posted by ExquisiteStone on March 19, 2024

Natural stone countertops such as granite, marble and quartzite are porous materials, meaning they have tiny openings and capillaries that can absorb liquids. Sealing is an essential protective measure to prevent damage due to daily wear-n-tear.

It sounds like an inconvenience, but treating natural stone with a penetrating sealer creates a protective layer that repels liquids, preventing substances like red wine, oils, and acidic foods from penetrating the stone and causing stains.

Steps to Properly Seal Natural Stone Countertops

1. CLEAN THOROUGHLY:  Before sealing, ensure your countertops are clean and free of any stains, dirt, or debris. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner for the best results.

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEALER:  Select a sealer based on the type of natural stone you have. Check out recommendations from Exquisite Stone here.

3. VENTILATE:  Adequate ventilation is essential when applying sealers to minimize exposure to fumes. Open windows and doors or use fans if necessary.

4. APPLY SEALER:  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealer. Typically, this involves evenly applying the sealer in small sections and allowing it to penetrate the stone for the specified time.

5. BUFF & REMOVE EXCESS:  After the sealer has had time to penetrate, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels to remove any excess sealer from the surface.

6. CURE:  Give the sealer ample time to cure and create a protective barrier. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, so be patient.

7. MAINTAIN:  Reapply the sealer as needed.  Exquisite Stone recommends every 3 to 5 years for most materials but please contact the sales team with any questions.

Sealing natural stone countertops is a vital part of preserving their beauty and longevity. By taking the time to follow proper sealing procedures, you can ensure that your countertops remain a stunning focal point in your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. A little maintenance now will go a long way in protecting your investment and maintaining the timeless elegance of your natural stone countertops.  Contact Exquisite Stone for information about sealers and helpful tips.

Are These Countertops Made of Soap?

Posted by ExquisiteStone on December 13, 2023

Curious about this stuff called Soapstone?  Well, it is absolutely a stone, but it is not made of soap.  Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc. Its rich history dates back thousands of years and spans across various cultures and continents. The use of soapstone for countertops can be traced to ancient civilizations, where its unique properties made it an ideal material for culinary and decorative purposes.

Soapstone’s story begins in ancient Egypt, where it was revered for its heat resistance and durability. Egyptian artisans carved soapstone into intricate statues, amulets, and sarcophagi.

During the Viking Age, soapstone gained prominence in Scandinavia. The Norse people recognized its exceptional heat retention properties, using soapstone to construct stoves, fireplaces, and, eventually, countertops. Soapstone countertops provided an ideal surface for food preparation, as they could withstand the heat of cooking fires.

As exploration and trade expanded in the 16th century, soapstone found its way into different parts of the world. In North America, Native American tribes used soapstone for various purposes, including cooking vessels, pipes, and artistic carvings. The Inuit people of the Arctic also employed soapstone for creating cooking pots and lamps.

Fast forward to the 20th century when soapstone experienced a revival in popularity. The Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements embraced soapstone for its aesthetic appeal. Architects and designers began incorporating soapstone countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, appreciating its unique veining, soft texture, and resistance to stains.

In recent decades, soapstone countertops have witnessed a surge in demand among homeowners and interior designers. Renowned for their natural beauty and practical benefits, soapstone countertops add elegance and charm to any space. They are heat-resistant, non-porous, and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both modern and traditional homes.

Interested in exploring Soapstone for your next project? Contact Exquisite Stone today for more information!

Quartzite Countertops Want to Bring Some WILD into Your Kitchen

Posted by ExquisiteStone on November 14, 2023

Glamour! Class! Sophistication!  How about some new quartzite countertops?  Quartzite is a natural stone that is often mistaken for marble, but it is a completely different material.  While marble is formed from limestone, quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is formed when sandstone is subjected to high heat and pressure.

One of the main benefits of quartzite is its durability. It is a hard, dense material that is resistant to scratches and heat.  Some varieties of this natural stone can be more porous than others, so regular cleaning and sealing is recommended with use.

Quartzite is also a visually appealing option for countertops and other surfaces. It is available in a range of colors, from white and cream to shades of gray, blue, green, and even pink. It also has a unique, marble-like veining that adds character and interest to any space.

If you’re considering quartzite for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, quartzite is a natural stone and the pattern can vary wildly from slab to slab.  This feature adds to the individuality and beauty of the material.  Your neighbors will never have the same quartzite as you!  It is also a good idea to seal the quartzite to protect it from stains and moisture.

Quartzite is a specialty countertop material that can be higher in price than some other options, but its character is unmatched compared to other materials.

Interested in seeing some quartzite slabs?  Check in with our showroom to find the perfect material for your project!