NATURAL STONE

	TRAVERTINE Travertines are very similar to marble, but have open tubular veining in the stone that is typically filled when processed. They also have a more directional veining when cut with the grain. Cross-cut travertines are becoming more and more popular for their non-directional veining. Travetines come either polished or honed (satin finish).
	GRANITE Granite is a very hard crystalline volcanic rock that can withstand much more abuse than marble. It is appropriate for kitchen counters, floors, bathrooms, etc. The polished surface of the stone can be used in high use residential counters with minimal upkeep. Like all stones, granite should be sealed after installation to minimize the risk of a stain occurring.
	LIMESTONE Limestone is a sedimentary stone that has become increasingly popular for floors and bathrooms. It has similar properties to marble, but almost always comes in a honed finish. Unlike polished marble, honed limestone has better resistance to etching and scratching. Limestone should always be sealed after installation. Sizes for limestone are usually 12", 16" and 24". Some pre-cut factory patterns using multiple shapes of stone are available for certain colors.
	TUMBLED STONE Tumbled stone is marble, travertine, limestone or slate that is cut and then tumbled to achieve a very rustic, old-world appearance. They can range in size from 2" to 16". 4" tumbled marble is extremely popular for kitchen backsplashes, especially with granite countertops. Tumbled stones also make very durable, non-slip floors. All tumbled stones should be sealed with a high quality sealer.
	SLATE Slates are composed of layers or rock, sometimes showing great color variations from layer to layer. Slate is a very porous stone that must be sealed for any interior application. The material has a natural clefted (textured) surface which makes it a very non-slip surface. It can be used for floors, fireplaces, kitchen backsplashes, etc. Slate makes an excellent exterior material.
	MARBLE Marble is a natural, metamorphic stone. It typically has a high polished surface. As with most stones, natural color variations are part of it's beauty. It is a relatively soft stone and should not be used in applications where it will be in continuous contact with staining agents, such as in a kitchen. Polished marble cannot withstand any exposure to acids such as citric acid from lemon juice. If exposed, it will etch and loose it's shine. Marble is most appropriate for formal, lightly used floors but it is always in great demand for bathrooms and fireplaces. Not normally for exterior use. Honed marble is an increasingly popular material for floors due to it's better wear properties, warmer feel and less slick surface compared to polished. 12" and 18" are common sizes for honed marble.

For more unique stones, visit our sister company, Premier Marble & Tile, 3201 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-526-0185.