Everyone knows that granite is one of the most sought-after materials for bathroom remodels and kitchen countertops. But here are a few fun facts that you might not have known about the granite that’s in your kitchen or bath:

Granite Facts

Granite is the oldest igneous rock in the world, believed to have been formed as long as 300 million years ago. For those who’ve forgotten your high school science classes, igneous rocks are formed from cooling lava or magma.

Granite is also what’s called a “plutonic” rock, meaning that it forms deep underground. Granite is the main component that makes up the earth’s continental crust.

The white mineral grains that you see in granite are feldspar, which is the most abundant rock on the planet, comprising around 60% of the earth’s surface.

The word “granite” comes from the Latin word “granum,” which means “a coarse grain.” Granite got its name because of the grain-like patterns formed by its densely packed crystals.

Granite has a density of around 162 pounds per cubic foot. That’s more than two times heavier than the same volume of water.

Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, coming in at a seven on the Mohs hardness scale. In fact, granite is so tough and durable that the pedestal that the Statue of Liberty stands on is made from granite.

The Statue of Liberty isn’t the only monument to incorporate granite. Granite has been used in construction since the Ancient Egyptians.

Granite was also the reason for the first commercial railroad in the United States—the “Granite Railway” of Quincy, MA.

Blue Hone granite, taken from the island of Ailsa Craig, near Scotland, is used in the manufacture of curling stones—those odd stone discs with handles used in the sport of curling.

The highest granite mountain in the world is Kangchenjunga in the Himalayas. At 8,586 meters, Kangchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, behind Everest (which is limestone) and K2 (which is gneiss). Mount Rushmore is also sculpted out of granite.

Here’s what you probably already do know about granite: it’s beautiful, durable, and a great material for kitchen countertops, bathroom remodels, and other uses around the home. But did you know that granite countertop care and maintenance is also easy? It is if you have the right tools for the job!

With Rock Doctor’s full line of stone care products, granite countertop care and maintenance is as easy as one, two, three.

1) Granite sealer to protect your granite

2) granite cleaner to take care of spills and stains

3) granite polish to keep your countertop looking its best!

So for all your granite countertop care and maintenance needs, look for our professional stone care products at fine retail stores, including Lowe’s Home Improvement and participating Ace Hardware, Do it Best, and True Value locations.