There are many different types of minerals in granite, some of which appear like small, shiny flecks or longer veins of varying colors. Granite itself comes in a variety of natural colors and can be polished or finished in many different ways.

Granite is a one-of-a-kind natural surface that is easy to clean, and adds value to your home. The stone is naturally durable and water resistant with antibacterial and stain proof characteristics. Granite is also scratch and heat resistant.

Use a granite sealant for an additional layer of protection. Clean with a damp cloth and use a small amount of soapy water for heavy residue or debris. Avoid ammonia, bleach or any cleaning products with solvents or caustics, as this will remove the sealant.

Marble is typically a solid grayish-white or cream color and has dark veins running through it, though there are other, rarer varieties that have a pale green or pink base color. The lines in marble are formed from mineral impurities, like silt and iron oxides.

The elegant appearance of marble is an excellent stone option for homeowners who want to give their house an aesthetic appeal. Always be sure to protect your marble from water, spills and stains!

Clean up any spills on marble as quickly as possible with a slightly damp cloth, and then dry with a soft towel. Avoid bleach or any abrasive household cleaners as etching and dullness may occur. Additionally, it is recommended that marble surfaces be resealed twice a year.

Pure quartzite is usually white to gray, though quartzite often occur in various shades of pink and red due to varying amounts of iron oxide. Other colors, such as yellow and orange, are due to other mineral impurities.

Quartzite is extremely popular due to its marble-like appearance and granite-like properties making it an ideal choice for kitchens. The hardness of quartzite makes it extremely resistant to water absorption, heat and scratches.

Use a stone sealant for an additional layer of protection. There are instances when a particular block of a quartzite can have traces of calcium carbonate which can be a cause of localized etching, if that block comes in contact with anything acidic.

Onyx is a show stopper. The stone’s stunning swirls and speckles of rich, vibrant color make it an extremely sought-after material. Another somewhat unusual property of onyx is its unusual translucency. When lit from behind or underneath, it creates a soft glow that highlights the color and pattern variations.

Rarer than fine marble and highly desirable for its unique appearance, onyx remains a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a truly special touch—and be the envy of everyone on the block. Onyx is expensive and high-maintenance, but it’s beauty, rarity and exclusivity is what attracts many.

Onyx is fragile and will usually need a sturdy backing. It’s also soft and prone to scratching, chipping, acid etching, erosion and water damage. Avoid heavy use areas like kitchen and bathroom counters. Regular household cleaners can damage the surface, so special cleaners and sealants must be used.

The natural beauty of ELEMENTS Quartz comes from its multi-dimensional colors. It can be found in a wide variety of colors such as earthy browns, and creams. It often features sparkles and veining for the look of granite or marble.

ELEMENTS Quartz is naturally non-porous and scratch resistant. And built-in anti-microbial protection inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. ELEMENTS Quartz is available in a polished treatment, making it a versatile option.

ELEMENTS Quartz counters are stain and scratch resistant. They never require sealing because they are also nonporous. However, ELEMENTS Quartz is not heat proof, so to maintain the beauty of your countertop, do not place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface.