Granite is one of Australia’s mainstay natural stones – having experienced mass popularity in the kitchens of the 1970s-1990s. Like all natural stones formed over many millennia, there are a vast array of granites, each different from the next. One thing Artedomus granites do have in common, is their exceptional quality and sophistication.
Granite remains extremely popular for its robust qualities. It’s an igneous stone which means it’s formed from magma, and is characterised as a large grain stone of impressive strength. “Granite is like the earth’s porcelain – it’s formed in the same way,” says Artedomus’ Sydney Sales Manager, Matt Croll. He likens it to quartzite, in that it is an igneous stone composed of silicon oxide, however granite differs in that it is bound together by the heat of molten rock.
Quartzite is a metamorphic stone formed by sandstone being shifted through tectonic plate movement deeper into the earths crust and then, under extreme heat and pressure it recrystalises. Eventually it makes it’s way closer to the earth’s surface from where the stone can be quarried. Granite is another stone that has no calcium carbonate and forms from magma, deep in the earths crust, and over time solidifies as it moves toward the coler surface of the earth. The cristal sizes grow large due to the slow cooling of the magama.
“Because granite is a silica-based stone, it does not contain calcium carbonate which means it is good at resisting acids,” says Matt. He points out that granite still has a level of porosity which means it is not resistant to oil. However, once sealed with a penetrating sealer, and maintained, the stone will remain unmarred.
Like all natural stones, formed over millennia through natural processes, every granite is different. We take great joy in sourcing exceptional quality granites that offer variety in terms of colouring, patterning and more. Here are four new granites that elevate this enduringly popular stone into contemporary living environments, where design is at its best. Reach out to view our new granites.
The soft, neutral tones of Astavo
Astavo is an exquisite natural stone that will bring sophistication to any space. It’s soft, neutral tones, when used on kitchen benchtops, heighten the sense of elegance, and bring notable refinement to bathroom vanities.
The moody elegance of Rocaro
Rocaro features a distinct patterning of speckled greys. It’s graceful whorls and intricate interplay of light and dark greys are mesmerising – especially when applied to kitchen, bathroom and living zones – including joinery, walling, stairs and flooring.
The elemental beauty of Zurano
Zurano is remarkable for its deep, dark grey tones and exceptional versatility, making it ideal for a multitude of spaces. Its complex character is elemental in its beauty, revealing the many millennia of natural formation that has gone into making this natural stone.
Deep, dark sophistication with Merilia
Merilia is a luxurious natural stone that exudes sophistication with its deep, dark grey tones, bordering on black. It leaves a captivating impression on the viewer, bringing new dimension and undeniable elegance to kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities, flooring and external applications.
Reach out to us today to view our new granites.
Like this article? Read top 10 natural stone and porcelain benchtops with warm tones and gentle curves.
Words by Alice Blackwood