Granite

Granite is-quite literally-as old as the earth. It is formed from liquid magma, the molten rock still found at the core of the planet, cooled slowly to form a substance approaching the hardness and durability of diamond. Granite is an igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, feldspar and mica crystals. However, granite owes its hardness and density to the fact that it has been solidified deep within the earth, under extreme pressure. When granite slabs are polished, the top layer of these softer mica flakes off and forms small indentations or depressions (sometimes referred to as "pitting") in the stone, which are usually dark brown, green or black in color and give the granite its own beauty. Granite is the most durable of the stone surfaces, which makes it the best choice for a worry-free countertop. It is extremely durable, unlikely to crack or scratch during normal use, stain resistant and easy to care for.