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Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite?

Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite?

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The main differences between marble and granite are their composition, hardness, durability, and appearance. Here is a comparison of the two materials:

  • Composition: Marble is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which is softer than the components of granite. Granite, on the other hand, is a mixture of various minerals, giving it a harder and more durable composition.
  • Hardness: Marble has a hardness of 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale, while granite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes granite a stronger and harder stone compared to marble.
  • Durability: Granite is more durable than marble and less prone to stains and scratching. Marble is more susceptible to heat, acidic spills, and etching, making it less suitable for areas with high traffic or hot pots and pans. Granite is often found in kitchens, while marble is more common in bathrooms and other areas with less traffic.
  • Appearance: Granite and marble have slightly similar appearances, but upon close examination, specific differences can be detected. Granite color variations generally appear as flecking throughout the stone, while marble color variations resemble colorful veins that swirl through the stone. Granite has a shinier, glossier appearance compared to marble's dull smoothness.

In summary, granite is a harder, more durable material than marble, making it more suitable for areas with high traffic and heat, such as kitchens. Marble, while less durable, offers a unique and elegant appearance, making it more suitable for areas with less traffic, like bathrooms.

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  • What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite?
  • Comparative Table: Marble vs Granite

    • Comparative Table: Marble vs Granite

    Here is a table comparing the differences between marble and granite:

    Feature Marble Granite
    Composition Metamorphic rock, formed from recrystallized carbon originating from limestone under extreme pressure and heat Igneous rock, composed of compressed quartz, feldspar, mica, and other materials
    Hardness 3 to 5 on Mohs scale, softer and more porous than granite 6 to 7 on Mohs scale, harder and more durable than marble
    Appearance Consistent color with veins running through it, usually with a lighter background and darker veins Varied colors in specks and grains, typically with medium to dark shades
    Strength & Durability Less durable, susceptible to stains and scratches, not ideal for kitchen countertops due to potential damage from everyday activities More durable, resistant to scratches and heat, ideal for kitchen countertops
    Maintenance Requires frequent maintenance to prevent stains and damage Less maintenance required compared to marble

    Both marble and granite are natural stone materials that can be used for countertops, but they have different properties and appearance. Marble is softer and more porous than granite, making it less durable and more susceptible to damage from everyday activities. Granite, on the other hand, is harder and more durable, making it a better choice for kitchen countertops.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.