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Stone Information

Maintaining Your Stones

Proper maintenance begins with a clear understanding of the specific stone installed. As a natural material, stone is inherently sensitive to certain cleaning agents and care methods. Most natural stones are alkaline in composition, similar to soil and mineral deposits, which makes them susceptible to harm from aggressive or abrasive products.

To preserve the integrity, appearance, and longevity of your stone surfaces, we recommend consulting your installer for application-specific guidance.

For comprehensive care recommendations, please refer to the
Natural Stone Institute: Care & Cleaning resource.

Installation Guidance

For optimal results, installation should be performed in collaboration with a qualified professional experienced in natural stone applications. All installations should follow best practices outlined in the TCNA Handbook for proper Stone Installation.

LIMESTONES, particularly in wet environments, may require rapid-set thinset to ensure proper adhesion and long-term durability.

MOTHER OF PEARL is best suited for low-traffic, low-temperature areas and is not recommended for shower floors or high-traffic installations. Bathroom floors are generally acceptable. Installation should be completed using unsanded grout to protect the surface.

For grout selection and installation procedures, please refer to
Laticrete Installation Guidelines

Precautions

  • Clean only with mild soap and water, using pH-neutral products specifically formulated for natural stone.
  • Avoid any cleaners containing lemon, vinegar, or other acidic compounds, as these can etch, dull, or permanently damage the surface.
  • Do not use scouring powders, abrasive creams, or harsh tools, as they may scratch or degrade the stone’s finish.
  • To protect against everyday wear, use trivets beneath hot items and placemats for objects that may cause abrasions. Coasters are particularly important for beverages containing alcohol or citrus, which can compromise the stone’s surface over time.
  • Rust-removal products should be strictly avoided, as many contain hydrofluoric acid, a corrosive agent that can etch, discolor, and permanently dull polished stone.

Where Do Stones Come From?

Stones are natural solids, composed of one or more minerals, formed over millions of years; intense heat, pressure, and the accumulation of organic matter deep below the Earth’s surface give rise to a remarkable variety of stones, each with unique characteristics; as the planet’s surface shifts, erodes, and evolves, vast rock formations are exposed, many of which have become renowned quarry sites around the world; key sources of premium natural stone include Brazil, Canada, China, France, Greece, India, Italy, Mexico, the Middle East, Portugal, Spain, Taiwan, and Turkey among others.

Stones are classified according to their mineral composition and geological formation. Their appearance, including color, hardness, and crystal structure, reflects the conditions under which they were created; even stones that appear visually similar may differ significantly in composition and quality, depending on their origin and formation process.

How Are Stones Formed?

Natural stone is categorized into three primary groups based on how it is formed: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

1

IGNEOUS: Granite, Basalt, Obsidian

Igneous stones are formed from molten lava or magma that has cooled and solidified. These stones are generally very hard and dense, making them highly durable and resistant to heat and scratching.

2

SEDIMENTARY: Limestone, Sandstone, Travertine, Conglomerate

Sedimentary stones are formed through the accumulation of mineral and organic particles that are eroded, transported, deposited, and compacted over time. Due to their layered structure and higher porosity, these stones are typically softer and may require sealing to enhance durability.

3

METAMORPHIC: Marble, Quartzite, Slate, Soapstone

Metamorphic stones originate from existing rocks that have been transformed by intense heat, pressure, or chemical processes without melting. These conditions alter the stone’s structure and appearance, resulting in materials that may be dense or layered and, in some cases, more sensitive to acids.

Photo Credit: www.pressbooks.senecapolytechnic.ca

Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock mainly composed of calcium carbonate (calcite), formed from compacted marine organisms like shells and bones, and/or from calcite precipitation in water. Its texture ranges from fine to coarse-grained, sometimes with visible fossils. Depending on composition, it can be relatively soft and prone to scratches and stains.

Granite

Granite is an igneous rock composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and minor amounts of mica. It typically has a crystalline granular appearance and ranges widely in color from light to dark tones. Granite is very hard and durable. While relatively low in porosity compared to many natural stones, it can still absorb liquids and may stain if not properly sealed.

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when limestone is subjected to intense heat and pressure. It is composed primarily of calcite or dolomite and is characterized by crystalline structures, distinctive veining, and visible grain. Marble’s wide range of colors and natural variation make it a popular material for decorative and architectural applications.

Mother of Pearl

Mother of Pearl, also known as nacre, is a natural material formed as the iridescent inner layer of mollusk shells. It is prized for its luminous, pearlescent appearance and refined elegance. While it offers good durability for decorative applications, it should be cleaned and handled gently to preserve its surface and natural sheen.

Onyx

Onyx is a sedimentary stone formed from the deposition of microscopic crystals, often within cave environments. The uniformity and fineness of these crystals give onyx its characteristic translucence, allowing light to pass through the surface. Naturally delicate, onyx may contain fissures or pits, which are typically reinforced, backed, or filled during processing. Despite its fragility, onyx is highly valued for its decorative appeal.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed when quartz-rich sandstone is subjected to intense heat and pressure. It is harder than granite and marble, making it highly durable, heat- and scratch-resistant. Quartzite’s natural beauty and strength make it a popular choice for both decorative and functional applications. Proper sealing is recommended to prevent staining.

Sandstone

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of layers of quartz grains and mineral cements, sometimes mixed with calcium carbonate or iron oxide. It is typically light brown, tan, or reddish in color, with a striated or layered appearance. Sandstone is durable but may require sealing to protect against staining and weathering.

Slate

Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock formed from clay, shale, and other sedimentary materials. It naturally splits into thin, flat layers, making it ideal for flooring, roofing, and wall cladding. Slate is hard and long-lasting, though its layered structure can make it prone to chipping or splitting if not handled properly.

Soapstone

Soapstone is a soft metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc, giving it a smooth, soapy texture. It is dense, resistant to heat and stains, and develops a natural patina over time. Although it can scratch, these marks can be lightly sanded or oiled to restore the surface.

Travertine

Travertine is a sedimentary limestone formed through the accumulation of calcite from hot springs or limestone caves. Its natural surface features pits and troughs created by trapped gas bubbles during formation. Travertine is durable for flooring and decorative applications, and holes are often filled with resin, cement, or grout to improve strength and maintenance.

Summary:

Material Type/Formation Key Characteristics Common Uses
BASALT Igneous Dense, fine-grained, very hard; typically dark in color Flooring, walls, paving, exterior cladding
LIMESTONE Sedimentary Composed mainly of calcium carbonate, may contain visible fossils, ranges from fine to coarse-grained, relatively soft Flooring, walls, architectural features
GRANITE Igneous Composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica; crystalline, granular appearance; very hard and durable Countertops, flooring, exterior cladding, walls
MARBLE Metamorphic Formed from limestone under heat and pressure; crystalline structures, prominent veining, wide color range Decorative and architectural applications, flooring, walls, countertops
MOTHER OF PEARL Natural Material Iridescent inner layer of mollusk shells; luminous, elegant, requires gentle handling Inlays, decorative accents, walls, bathroom floors (not shower floors)
OBSIDIAN Igneous Volcanic glass; smooth, shiny, brittle Decorative accents, tiles, and small architectural features
ONYX Sedimentary Microscopic crystals give translucence; may contain fissures or pits, delicate Decorative panels, countertops, backlit features, flooring, walls
QUARTZITE Metamorphic Formed from quartz-rich sandstone under heat and pressure; very hard and durable; heat- and scratch-resistant Countertops, flooring, walls
SANDSTONE Sedimentary Layers of quartz and mineral cements; striated appearance; colors range from tan to red Flooring, paving, exterior walls, landscaping, countertops
SLATE Metamorphic Fine-grained, splits into thin layers; hard but can chip Flooring, roofing, walls
SOAPSTONE Metamorphic Composed mainly of talc; soft, smooth texture; heat- and stain-resistant Countertops, sinks, stoves, decorative items
TRAVERTINE Sedimentary Porous limestone from mineral deposits; pits and holes filled for durability Flooring, walls, decorative applications

The brilliant hues and diverse crystal formations in natural stones result from mineral properties shaped by temperature, pressure, crystalline structures, and veining. These processes give each stone its unique patterns, textures, and colors.

Stone Guide
1

VEINS

In marble, veins and color grains form from liquid minerals that flowed through limestone under heat. As the stone cooled, these minerals solidified, creating natural patterns.

2

CRYSTALS

Geometric, faceted mineral formations cluster together as the rock solidifies. Crystals determine texture and help identify mineral composition.

3

SHELL

Some sedimentary stones contain fossilized shells or fragments, compacted over time by pressure. Adds natural texture and historic detail.

4

COLORS

Stone colors are influenced by elemental composition:

  • IRON | Red, Green, Yellow, Black
  • CHROMIUM | Red, Green
  • COPPER | Blue, Green
  • MANGANESE | Pink, Purple, Brown, Black
  • TITANIUM | Blue
  • COBALT | Blue

1. Midnight Glacier Marble, 2. Blue Macauba Quartzite, 3. Ming Green Marble, 4. Red Sea Onyx, 5. Golden Rustic Travertine, 6. New Gascogne Limestone

Today, many companies around the world use general names for different types of stone, confusing the stone maintenance industry. Originally, stones were named in Italian, with two parts: the first part described the color, and the second indicated the quarry location.

Examples:

  • NERO MARQUINA: Black Marble from Marquina, Spain
  • BIANCO CARRARA: White Marble from Carrara, Italy.

Common Color Name Translations

Azzurro Blue Negro / Nero Black
Bianco White Perla / Perlato Pearl
Dorato / D’Oro Gold Rosa Pink
Fiore Flower Rosso Red
Giallo Yellow Verde Green

Honed

Honed surfaces are smooth and have a flat to low-sheen finish. Gloss can be adjusted through polishing. Often porous, honed stones are suitable for high-traffic areas and typically require a penetrating sealer. Colors may appear muted compared to polished surfaces.

Polished

Polished stone has a glossy, reflective surface that highlights natural colors and patterns. The shine is achieved through polishing, not coatings. Polished surfaces can wear over time with heavy use or improper care.

Tumbled

Tumbled stones have a slightly rough, worn texture, created by tumbling small pieces of stone across the surface. A color enhancer may be applied to highlight natural tones.

Soft Pillowed

Soft pillowed surfaces have a leathered, matte texture, created by brushing the stone and honing the surface, with edges gently softened to produce a velvety feel.

Soft Touch (Satin)

Soft touch finishes are silky, smooth, and matte. Created through brushing, light polishing, or special treatments, the surface is non-reflective, fingerprint-resistant, and offers a balance between honed and polished.

Filled & Unfilled

Some stones, like travertine, naturally have holes and crevices. Filled stones have these areas filled with resin or cement to allow for easier cleaning. Unfilled stones retain their natural state, which can be left as is or filled during installation.

Brushed​

Brushed surfaces have a soft, matte texture, created by lightly brushing the stone with wire brushes. This finish enhances the stone’s natural colors and patterns, producing a relaxed, antiqued, and tactile appearance.

Antiqued

Antiqued finishes are either naturally derived or manufactured to have a weathered look, enhancing a stone’s natural texture.

Flamed

Flamed stone has a rough, porous surface created by applying intense heat, causing the crystals to fracture. Proper treatment is required to protect the surface.

Sandblasted

Sandblasted stone has a textured, matte finish created by a pressurized mix of sand and water.

Sawn

Sawn surfaces are rough and flat, created by cutting the stone with a gang saw. Visible saw marks give a natural, matte texture.

Brush-Hammered

Brush-hammered stone has a textured surface created by pounding, with adjustable levels of roughness.

Mineral Hardness

The Mohs Scale, developed in the 1800s, measures a mineral’s resistance to scratching, ranking minerals from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). Harder stones are more resistant to abrasion, whereas softer stones are more easily scratched; understanding a stone’s hardness helps predict how it will respond to wear and its suitability for various applications.

Examples:

  • QUARTZ, a key component of granite, ranks around 7.
  • MARBLE ranks around 3, as it is relatively soft compared to granite or quartzite. Its calcium (calcite) composition gives it a smooth, elegant texture and allows it to develop the characteristic veining and crystalline structure that make it highly valued in decorative and architectural applications.

Photo Credit: www.compoundchem.com