Granite countertops are one of the most versatile, financially reasonable, and in-demand products when it comes to office and home renovations. But how much do you know about granite itself? Here are ten fun facts about granite that will make you appreciate the commodity even more!
Fact 1: Granite is a type of bedrock called igneous rock, which means it was formed from cooling lava or magma, although some scientists believe it was formed through the process of granitization without the inclusion of a silicate melt.
Fact 2: Granite is harder than gold, silver, copper, aluminum, iron, glass and steel, but not as hard as topaz, titanium, emerald, hardened steel or diamonds.
Fact 3: Eighty percent of granite is believed to have been formed in Precambrian times, which is the earliest part of the Earth’s history, starting billions of years ago.
Fact 4: Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is carved entirely out of granite. Other major sources of granite are Yosemite National Park and the Chilean Andes Mountains
Fact 5: Granite has a density of ~162 pounds per cubic foot, which is over two times denser than that exact same volume of water.
Fact 6: The highest granite mountain in the world is Kangchenjunga in the Himalayas, which is the third highest mountain in the world at almost 9,000 meters high. The only mountains taller are Mount Everest and K2.
Fact 7: Granite is found on every single continent on Earth.
Fact 8: Granite is often defined as a “dimension stone” that can be cut into specific lengths, widths, and thicknesses. This is one reason it’s so perfect for construction, renovation, and countertops.
Fact 9: What we call granite, rock experts may give a variety of names including alkali granite, granodiorite, pegmatite, or aplite.
Fact 10: Granite varies dramatically in color due to the variety of minerals that make up the stone. With colors ranging from deep reds to gold to green to gray to black, no two slabs of granite are identical.
There’s a reason that people demand granite for their commercial and residential projects. With dynamic color options, a hardness and resilience that can’t be found anywhere else, and a naturally occurring beauty, it’s the top choice for every discerning homeowner and business owner for their counter tops, tables, custom pieces, and other design options. Contact us today to find out what we can do to meet your design needs!
Affordable Granite Concepts is a premier granite installation and fabrication company located in Altamonte Springs. We offer one of the biggest selections of granite, quartz, and natural stone to the Orlando area at our 12,000 square foot showroom. We prioritize satisfaction, quality, and timeliness. Our ultra-fast granite fabrication process for custom granite countertops takes only 3-business days. If you’re in Central Florida, you can count on us to make your vision come to life at the best price!