We Just Love Black Granite! Here Are Our Favourites…

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Black granite is the choice for the simple yet sophisticated kitchen of your dreams. Classic simplicity combined with an air of effortless cool, nothing will ever be the new black. The kitchen is the place for homemaking and showing love, whether it be uniting with your loved ones after a hard days work or hosting a lovely Sunday lunch with your friends. It needs to be impressive!

Luckily there is no shortage of black granites out there – there is almost too many to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite black granites here at GBC, we hope will help make things a little easier.

Copacabana

Copacabana is a gorgeous Brazilian granite. It has a very dark background with large bands of white, grey, and light brown crystals.

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Jet Black

A classic choice for all the minimalists out there. Jet black is exactly what it seems – you’ll never tire of it!

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Nero Marinace

Something for those who are a little more adventurous. Nero Marinace is essentially a slice of fossilised riverbed rock formed millions of years ago beneath the earth’s crust.

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Volga Blue

Something a bit special, for those who want a black aesthetic with a hint of colour. The blue crystals are really dazzling.

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Titanium Gold

What better to complement a classic black look than streaks of gold! Titanium Gold really screams class.

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Kitchen Counters: Granite for Incredible Longevity

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When it comes to benchtops you can’t beat granite for its longevity and toughness. Here’s an article we found on Houzz that explores some of the style options and benefits to consider when choosing granite as the material for your kitchen benchtop.

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Granite, the same stone that portions of ancient Egyptian pyramids are composed of, is ubiquitous in the kitchen for good reason. This stout stone that can weather millennia easily stands up to kitchen use and abuse. Is granite right for your kitchen? Have a look.

 

 The basics: Granite is a natural stone, composed of at least 20 percent quartz as well as mica and feldspar. Colors choices span the rainbow, from a monochromatic slab to bold patterns. Countertop finish options include:

  • Polished: The most common finish; it’s mirror-like, stands up well to stains and is the least porous
  • Honed: A matte finish that is typically not recommended, as it can stain and scratch more easily
  • Brushed/satin: Similar to a honed finish, though less matte in appearance and better performing
  • Leather: More polished than a honed or matte finish, but with a little texture
  • Flamed/thermal: Created by running a flame over the slab surface; has a rough, textured appearance and a varying surface depth
  • Antique: Has a brushed, dull appearance that is slightly textured

 Advantages: Granite is tough to beat when it comes to durability, due to its heat- and scratch-resistant qualities; it can bear up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. Granite can also be stain and water resistant when it’s properly sealed. Those seeking an unusual slab or a unique pattern will not be disappointed with the seemingly limitless choices.

Disadvantages: Installation can get tricky due to granite’s hefty nature. And if you choose some of the more exotic slabs, costs can quickly escalate.

Marble or Granite? A Comparison

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Choosing the right stone for your project is a big deal! If you’re building or renovating your kitchen or bathroom, granite and marble are likely options you are considering. The choice can be daunting, but the good news is both types of stones boast their own qualities, and each is absolutely stunning.

Granite

  • A natural stone with a speckled appearance, available in a range of colours and  dynamic variations in colour and pattern
  • More cost effective
  • Lower-budget options
  • Less maintenence
  • Stronger and harder than marble
  • Less prone to scratches, stains, acid and heat
  • Available in a range of finishes

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Marble

  • A natural stone with an unique aesthetic, typically light creamy coloured with dark veins throughout.
  • Luminous and luxurious look
  • More expensive
  • More maintenance
  • More prone to scratches, stains, acid and heat.
  • Softer than granite and more absorbent
  • Sensitive to acidic foods such as vinegar, lemon, tomatoes, wine, some cleaners, mildew removers and other materials commonly found in the kitchen or bathroom.
  • Finished is dulled easier
  • Limited colour availability

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Here at the Granite Benchtop Company, we recommend granite for any application in the kitchen area. This is because most spills occur in these areas, especially with acidic products. Marble is an excellent and beautiful choice for those who don’t mind a little extra care and maintenance! Marble can be a superb stone to use in home areas than are used less, such as the bathroom or laundry. Often the chemicals we use in these areas are less harsh than those in the kitchen.

If you have any inquiries about granite or marble, just get in touch.