Marble or granite: which stone to choose

What is the difference between marble and granite?

Marble is a metamorphic stone: limestone that has recrystallised under pressure and heat. That is why it is softer, warm in look and characteristically veined. Granite is an igneous rock of quartz, feldspar and mica – far harder, with a grained pattern instead of veins. In the trade, other hard igneous stones, such as gabbro, are also sold as "granite".

That is why we choose marble where the look matters most, and granite where the surface takes the most – frost, traffic and acids.

Which stone resists scratches and stains better?

Granite is among the hardest natural stones and is difficult to scratch. Marble is softer and sensitive to acids – lemon juice, wine or vinegar can leave dull marks if not wiped away quickly. That is not a stain in the stone but the surface etched by the acid; on polished marble it shows more.

• Granite – kitchen worktops, work surfaces, exterior stairs, high-traffic surfaces.
• Marble – entrances, bathrooms, floors, stairs, façades (split face) and monuments – where the look leads.

Are marble and granite suitable outdoors?

Yes, both. Granite has very low water absorption, which makes it frost-resistant and suitable for exterior use in our climate. Marble is used outdoors too – for stairs, split-face façades and monuments – and for surfaces constantly exposed to water and frost we recommend a rough finish and sealing.

A rule of thumb: if the surface faces water, frost or acids – consider granite. If the look leads indoors – marble is hard to beat.

Which stone for which space?

• Kitchen and worktops – granite, for its resistance to scratches and acids.
• Bathroom – both; marble brings warmth, granite is easier to keep.
• Indoor floors – both; with marble, watch out for acids and grit that scratches.
• Outdoor floors, terraces and courtyards – granite, or marble in a rough finish.
• Stairs – polished indoors, rough outdoors, in granite or marble.
• Façades and walls – split face in marble or granite, with a naturally split face.
• Monuments – marble for a classic grey or white look, granite for deep dark tones and a high gloss.

Polished or rough finish?

A polished finish brings out the colour and pattern of the stone and gives it a shine, but it is more slippery when wet. That makes it a finish for indoors. A rough finish has a matt, textured surface and gives good slip resistance – for outdoor floors, terraces and stairs. The same stone often comes in both finishes, so the choice depends on the place, not only on the stone.

How much does the stone weigh?

Weight matters for transport, handling and installation. For our stones, a 2 cm slab weighs about 52–55 kg/m² in marble and about 52–61 kg/m² in granite, depending on the density. The exact weight per m² is listed on every product page, and My Quote also calculates the estimated weight of the whole order.

How do you care for them?

Both stones benefit from sealing that protects against staining. Granite asks for minimal care; marble wants attention around acids and occasional re-polishing to keep its shine.

• Clean with water and a neutral detergent; avoid vinegar, lemon and harsh cleaners, especially on marble.
• Wipe up spills quickly, before they soak in or etch the surface.
• Renew the sealing from time to time, depending on how exposed the surface is.

In short: marble or granite?

• Choose granite for kitchens, work surfaces and places with heavy traffic, water and frost.
• Choose marble where the look leads – bathrooms, entrances, stairs, façades and monuments.
• Outdoors choose a rough finish, indoors a polished one.

If you are not sure which stone suits your space, write to us or send a quote request – we will suggest a stone for the purpose.