Natural Stones - Granite, Marble, Limestone, Onyx, Travertine, Specialty Materials

Granite and Marble are quarried throughout the world with a large portion of it shipped to Italy , the hub of the world for the natural stone industry. Once in Italy , a gang saw is used to slice the large blocks into 3/4" and 1-1/4" thick slabs. The faces of these slabs are then polished to a high gloss finish. The slabs then get crated in the original order from which they were cut. Each crated bundle contains approximately 8-12 slabs. Once they are crated they await shipment to fabricators around the world.

Initially marble and granite cost about the same as other solid surfaces, but price must be weighed against performance. The durability, longevity and natural beauty of marble and granite will usually outlive the home's occupants.

Stone is a natural product and will always vary in color, shading, veining and texture. We have endeavored to display samples that show the general characteristics of each marble, granite, travertine, or limestone as accurately as possible. However, every piece will vary to a degree, some more so than others.

In the fabrication shop, the stone is cut to size from slabs that average 4' x 8' for marble, and 5' x 9' for granite and 3/4" to 1-1/4" in thickness.

You have many options when it comes to beautiful, long-lasting natural stones for your home's interior and exterior: Granite, marble, slate, quartz-based stone, and limestone, just to name a few. Choosing a natural stone for your home is a very personal decision, much like selecting wallpaper or artwork. While there are scores of natural stones to consider, some are better suited than others to particular uses in and around the home. This guide, along with your architect and stone contractor, can help you explore your options and offer guidance on the right stone for the right home project.

Granite (click on "Granite" to view colors)

Granite is an igneous rock originating from the slow crystallization of molten magma cooling deep beneath the Earth's surface. The three main minerals easily recognized in granite are feldspar, mica, and quartz. At the top of the list is its extraordinary natural beauty.  With the ability to choose from over 400 granite colors you are assured your countertop will be unique. Granite is by far the most durable of all surfaces used in counter top construction.

Marble (click on "Marble" to view colors)

Marble has both a scientific and commercial definition. Scientific marble was once limestone that achieved metamorphosis from intense pressures and high temperatures within the earth. This altered its crystalline structure and introduced other minerals that produced the valuable colors and veining. Commercially, any stone capable of taking a polish (with the exception of granite) is known as marble. This includes travertine, onyx, and limestone. Marbles are a lot like people, no two are the same.

The marble family - limestone, travertine, marble, onyx - start out as sediment - animal skeletons and shells, plant matter, silt - at the bottom of bodies of water. After millions of years this solidifies (lithifies) into stone. Because its main component is calcium, it can be affected by acids such as vinegar and citrus.

Marble is one of the most elegant and luxurious of stones. Marble's beauty will last for generations. It is versatile enough for use throughout the house, such as fireplace facings, ornamental furnishings, walls and window sills.

Additional color samples can be viewed at the site(s) below.

Visit: www.igmcorp.com