*Calacatta Statuarietto Marble Reception Desk by Kelsey Cameron Interiors*

Throughout history, natural stones have served as integral components of both exterior and interior design as sturdy construction materials and prized decorative accents. Their unique veining, colors, and patterns create a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that enhances the overall ambiance of the room. In addition to their beauty, natural stones can significantly increase the resale value of a home.

Natural stones are a diverse group, each with attributes tailored to specific functions and requirements. We’re delving into the distinctive characteristics of the most prevalent stones to help you confidently choose a slab for your next project.

Marble

Marble is known for its distinctive veining and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. The most popular style over the last few years has been Calacatta (see below) due to its neutral aesthetic and beautiful veining. Lately, a bolder marble trend has developed with designers craving color and contrast like a dramatic Cassiopeia & Calacatta Viola (see below). Marble adds a luxurious look to any space, but is softer and more porous than other countertop materials, making it susceptible to scratches, stains, and etching from acidic substances. Marble has been used as a building material for thousands of years and can be seen in some of the world’s greatest buildings and works of art.

Recommended For: Commercial and Residential kitchens and statement rooms.

Cost: $$$$

Quartzite

Quartzite has a glassy appearance and can resemble marble in some instances but is harder and more durable, making it less prone to scratching and staining. Quartzite countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years and are the top choice for kitchen countertops alongside marble and granite. Quartzite slabs come in a variety of colors which allows you a range of bold to neutral countertop options. Our favorite color is Taj Mahal at the moment!

Recommended For: Commercial and Residential Countertops due to its durability and moderate cost

Cost: $$$

Travertine

Travertine has a unique, porous texture with natural pits and voids that can be filled or left unfilled, depending on the desired look. Travertine is softer and more porous than granite or quartzite, making it prone to scratching, so be mindful of where you are installing it. Unpolished travertine has a non-slip texture which makes it great for installing in bathrooms, showers, and floors. We love the organic look and feel that travertine brings to a space.

Recommended For: Commercial and Residential Bathrooms due to its durability and non-slip texture

Cost: $$$

Silestone

Silestone is a hybrid surface crafted from high-quality natural minerals and recycled elements, meticulously designed to possess a glossy and radiant finish. While sharing fundamental traits with granite and marble, it offers a brighter appearance. Renowned for its resilience and ability to fend off stains, Silestone is a favored option for countertops, particularly in high-traffic areas of the home, due to its enduring durability. Cosentino, the producer of Silestone has another line of surface materials called Dekton that we love to work with as well.

Recommended For: Commercial and Residential Countertops with high traffic due to its durability

Cost: $$$

Quartz

Quartz is a man-made stone which is highly durable, non-porous, and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Some of the most popular types of Quartz are engineered to mimic Marble like Calacatta or Gray Quartz. This is one of our go-to materials in high traffic areas.

Recommended For: Commercial and Residential Countertops due to its durability and resistance to moisture and stains

Cost: $$

Onyx

So this one is technically part of the marble family, but we’ve been seeing a resurgence of onyx slabs being used to add a fun pop of color to designs lately. Green onyx is valued for its unique and vibrant appearance, making it a popular choice for jewelry, decorative items, and architectural applications such as countertops and wall cladding. It is often used in both traditional and contemporary designs to add a touch of sophistication. This stone is also believed to possess certain metaphysical properties, with some cultures associating it with qualities like balance, harmony, and growth.

Recommended For: Residential Bathrooms for a beautiful statement room

Cost: $$$$