7 Interesting Facts About Granite: Countertop Deep-Dive
The man in this photo is standing on a sheer ledge 3,200 feet above Yosemite Valley, looking out at granitic rock, a type of plutonic igneous rock.
For over 25 years, Pacific Granite has been a leading provider of high-quality granite fabrication and installation services, covering everything from countertops and cladding to fireplace facings and facade tiles. In this blog post, we are excited to delve into the world of granite and share five fascinating facts about this extraordinary natural stone that bears our name. Get ready to uncover intriguing details about granite as we take you on a captivating journey of discovery.
1. “Granite” comes from the Latin Word for “Grain”
The word "granite" comes from the Latin word "granum," meaning "grain," which refers to the coarse-grained structure of this crystalline rock.
3. Granite scores 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale
When it comes to natural stone durability, granite reigns as one of the toughest contenders, boasting a remarkable hardness rating of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This exceptional hardness renders granite highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it an ideal choice for areas that endure heavy use, such as kitchen countertops. Additionally, granite exhibits remarkable strength, capable of supporting substantial weight without breaking or cracking. In fact, certain varieties of granite can withstand pressures of up to 20,000 pounds per square inch (psi) in their uncut pure form.
4. Granite = 70% of the Earth's continental crust
Granite is one of the most abundant materials on Earth and is estimated to make up around 70% of the Earth's continental crust, and is found in many parts of the world, making it a widely available material for human use throughout history. Granite is not only abundant on Earth but also in the universe. It is a common rock-forming mineral and can be found in many other planets, including Mars and the Moon. In fact, granite is one of the most abundant materials in the solar system after oxygen, silicon, and aluminum.
5. Environmentally Friendly
Granite is an environmentally friendly choice, as it is a natural material that can be recycled and doesn't emit harmful substances.
6. The 10 Commandments were originally etched on granite
A captivating animated movie poster depicting the legendary story of Moses and the Ten Commandments.
The use of stone for inscriptions is a practice that dates back to ancient civilizations, and the durability and permanence of stone made it an ideal material for recording important texts, laws, and decrees. The inscriptions on stone were often designed to convey a sense of power and authority, and the use of stone added to the weight and significance of the message being conveyed. One of the most famous examples of stone inscriptions is the Ten Commandments, which were etched into stone more than 3,000 years ago. In modern times, stone is still used for inscriptions, although it has largely been replaced by more efficient methods of recording and transmitting information. However, stone inscriptions continue to hold a special place in many cultures, and they remain a tangible link to our ancient past and the enduring power of stone as a material.
7. Granite is an Igneous Rock
Granite is a fascinating type of igneous rock that forms through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. Granitic rocks are primarily composed of feldspar, quartz, mica, and amphibole minerals. These minerals form an interlocking, equigranular matrix of feldspar and quartz, with scattered biotite mica and amphibole, giving the rock its characteristic texture and appearance.
Conclusion
Granite is a fascinating natural stone with a rich history and unique properties. From its formation as an igneous rock to its use in ancient and modern architecture, granite has been prized for its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Whether used in countertops, flooring, monuments, or sculptures, granite continues to be a popular choice for its timeless beauty and long-lasting performance. If you're considering using granite in your next construction or design project, you can appreciate the interesting facts that make this natural stone truly special. Thanks for reading!
Located in Coquitlam, BC, Canada, Pacific Granite Manufacturing Ltd. is your premier supplier of custom granite, quartz, limestone, marble, and other solid surfaces. We specialize in custom work such as shower walls, feature walls, fireplaces, and more. From one single custom countertop to 1,000+ unit retrofitting projects, we are here for you. Contact us today for a quote at admin@pacificgranite.ca or 604.291.2888, and be sure to check out our website and connect with us on Instagram and Facebook for updates and inspiration.