What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite

The main difference between marble and granite is that granite is harder and more stain-resistant than marble.

Marble and granite are two popular surfacing materials. Both materials will last beautifully in your home for many years. Marble and granite do have a slightly similar appearance, but it’s important to know that each has its own unique properties.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Marble
      – Definition, Properties
2. What is Granite
      – Definition, Properties
3. What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite
      – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Countertops, Granite, Marble

What is Marble

Marble is a type of metamorphic rock. A metamorphic rock is formed from the transformation of an existing rock type under intense heat and pressure conditions. Marble is formed from the transformation of limestone. This metamorphism process incorporates other minerals into the marble as well, giving it various attractive colours. Marble is predominantly made of calcium carbonate, which is a softer chemical compound. This softness, smoothness, and vein design give marble a unique, attractive look. It is generally available in white and pastel colours.

When we look at the hardness of marble, it records a value between 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale. Furthermore, it’s a porous stone and is more susceptible to staining. Some people do use it as a kitchen countertop, but it’s safer to use for quieter surfaces like powder rooms and bathrooms. Contact with hot pans and kitchen tasks like cutting can also damage marble kitchen countertops.

What is Granite

Granite is an igneous rock that forms by the solidification and cooling of magma deep within the earth over millions of years. During the process of heating and slow cooling, granite becomes become an extremely hard material. Moreover, granite is a grainy stone made from minerals that fit together. It mainly consists of quartz and feldspar, which are hard minerals. When you look at granite closely, you can notice the different pieces, which give it a quite unique look. Speckled patterns are very common among granite slabs, but some slabs also have swirls or veins. Granite is available in a wide range of colours and designs.

If we look at the hardness of granite, it records a value between 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It also won’t discolour easily. Granite is durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and damage from heat. This is it’s a popular choice for kitchen countertops, fireplaces, bar tops, bathrooms, etc.

Difference Between Marble and Granite

Definition

Marble is a type of metamorphic rock formed from the transformation of limestone, while granite is an igneous rock formed from the solidification and cooling of magma over millions of years.

Formation

Marble is formed from the transformation of limestone, while granite is formed from the solidification and cooling of magma over a period of millions of years.

Appearance

While marble has a vein pattern, granite mainly has a speckled pattern. In addition, marble is mostly available in light and pastel colours, while granite is available in various colours.

Hardness

Granite is harder than marble.

Stain Resistance

Moreover, granite is more stain resistance than marble.

Use

Marble is an ideal choice for use in quieter surfaces like powder rooms and bathrooms, while granite is a good choice for kitchen countertops, fireplaces, bar tops, bathrooms, etc.

Cleaning

Furthermore, marble countertops require more careful cleaning than granite as marble is softer and more porous than granite.

Conclusion

The main difference between marble and granite is that granite is harder and more stain-resistant than marble. In addition, marble has a vein pattern and is available in light and pastel colours while granite mainly has a speckled pattern and is available in various colours.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Marble pattern 008” By Amada44 – Own work (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “1457093” (CC0) via Pxhere