EDGES - DIFFERENT HARDNESSES
It gets worse. As we continue reading we learn that "
granite measures a seven on a scale of one to 10." I was not aware that there is a hardness scale for rocks, which must be tricky to produce because granite is usually composed of three minerals of quite different hardnesses. Quartz is 7, feldspar is usually 6, and biotite varies from 2.5 to 4, depending upon direction. But we are not done yet, for we are also told that "nothing can put a nick in
granite edges except a diamond," which is, of course, not true. I guarantee that I can "nick" your
granite edges with a variety of household items, including an ice pick.
Granite may be, however, unforgiving on your diamond if you happen to accidentally knock the stone in your ring against your
countertop; even if it is not granite but one of the dozens of other
countertop stones, your diamond may not survive. One dealer did recognize a threat by saying, "If you run into a granite corner, you can really bruise yourself." That certainly needed to be said, and I could not agree more.
More resources:
Marble Fireplace
Some limestones from countries such as France and Portugal can be somewhat porous but are perfect for flooring, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds and outdoor uses.
Stone Cleaning
To help you find the material that's best for your functional needs, taste, and pocketbook, we asked Western designers, fabricators, manufacturers, contractors, and retailers about the costs and characteristics of the most popular materials used today.