Granite, the enduring symbol of strength and beauty, holds more than just aesthetic appeal.
In this guide, we unravel the most interesting facts about granite, revealing its unique qualities and fascinating characteristics.
- All the visible granite originates from depths between 1 and 20 miles beneath the Earth’s surface;
- The term “granite” is derived from the Latin word “granum,” which means ‘grain,’ likely due to its granular appearance. This texture results from the cooling and solidification of molten rock beneath the Earth’s surface, forming quartz, feldspar, mica, and small amounts of other minerals, giving granite its distinctive speckled appearance;
- It is more resistant to staining and more durable than limestone, sandstone, or marble;
- Kangchenjunga, the world ‘s third highest mountain at 28,169 feet, is primarily composed of granite.;
- It is part of a 2.5 mile thick layer of light colored granite that formed deep within the thickened crust of the Himalayas;
- Around 50% of granite’s mass is composed of oxygen;
- True granite must contain a minimum of 20% quartz and 35% orthoclase feldspar. While no other minerals are obligatory, these percentage thresholds must be met;
- It has a density about two and a half times greater than the same volume of water;
- It is classified as an igneous plutonic rock. “Igneous” indicates that it formed as a result of volcanic activity, while “plutonic” suggests that this process occurred at significant depths beneath the Earth’s surface;
- Unique Color Variety: It comes in a wide range of colors, from the more common grays, whites, and blacks to rarer hues like blues, greens, and reds;
- Diverse Finishes: Can be polished to a high gloss, honed for a smooth matte finish, or given a leathered texture, providing diverse aesthetic options;
- Heat-Resistant: Its highly heat-resistant, making it an excellent choice for kitchen countertops where hot pans and pots are frequently placed;
- Versatility in Use: Beyond countertops, granite is widely used in construction, monuments, and sculptures due to its durability and timeless appeal;
- Global Production: Major producers of granite include China, India, Brazil, and various countries in Africa. Each region’s granite exhibits unique characteristics;
- Ancient Usage: Throughout history, it has been employed in the construction of notable structures, such as the pyramids in Egypt and the Parthenon in Greece;
- Commercial Grading: Is classified into different grades based on factors like thickness, color, and veining. These grades help determine its best use in various applications;
- Resistance to Weathering: Its known for its resistance to weathering and erosion, ensuring it remains durable and maintains its appearance over time;
- Quarrying Challenges: Extracting granite from quarries involves intricate processes, and advancements in technology have led to more efficient extraction methods.
