STONE FACTS

GEOLOGY: the study of rocks and stone formation

THREE CLASSIFICATIONS OF STONE:

IGNEOUS ROCKS (GRANITE) – formed from the solidification of molten magma deep within the earth.

Crystal sizes vary as to how quickly the magma cooled. Large crystals formed when magma cooled slowly. Small crystals formed when magma cooled quickly.
  

• Magma that reaches the surface is lava.

SEDIMENTARY ROCKS (LIMESTONE'S: travertine, slate, coral, shell stone or coquina) and SANDSTONES)

• Sedimentary stone is produced by bits and pieces of other stone caused by erosion, then cemented together by other minerals.
    
• Limestone is created under shallow seas and contains shells and fossils.

METAMORPHIC ROCKS (MARBLE AND SLATE)

• Limestone that has been exposed to high pressure and heat is transformed into marble by going through a molten phase.
     
• That change, named metamorphoses, creates swirls or bands in the material.

MARBLE

Marble is found in the mountainous regions of Canada, Italy, Germany, Spain, the United States, and other countries worldwide. Because of its beauty and elegance, marble is ideal for foyers, bathrooms, floors and hearths. It is a popular choice for vanity tops, fireplace facings and hearths, walls, and windowsills.

Marble adds a sophisticated element to a home, and its wonderful soft appearance, superior engineering characteristics, and ease of maintenance make it a natural choice for floors, wall coverings, table tops, and bathroom walls, floors, vanity tops, tub decks, and showers. The "natural veins" cast a soft glowing aura, or can appear as dramatic, striking highlights. There are marbles suitable to antique decorating styles as well as the most modernistic décor, and everything in between.

Marble should be cared for much in the same way as a fine wood finish. Using coasters on tabletops and cleaning up spills immediately will preserve marble’s natural beauty.