Stone Backsplash

One of the big trends in recent years is when people don’t limit their use of stone to the countertop itself. Instead, they take advantage of the durability and beauty of stone to get an attractive and resilient backsplash to go along with their countertop.

We see two main approaches to the stone backsplash. Most people like to go with the same material for their backsplash as their countertop. It’s easy and creates a harmonious appearance. However, it’s becoming increasingly popular to choose a contrasting backsplash stone. The benefit of this is that it gives you many more design options. The countertop is a demanding application, and fewer stones are suited for it than the backsplash. The backsplash doesn’t need to stand up to the same punishment, so you can choose from a wider assortment of colors and patterns.

Moody Colors

Make no mistake: neutral colors have always been popular and remain popular today. Beige, gray, ivory, and the like are all popular choices. Black countertops are also popular.

However, we are seeing more interest in natural stone with dramatic colors: greens, blues, and reds are all in demand. In some cases, it’s hard to find natural stone countertops that meet both the color demand and the functional properties necessary for the application. To get around this, some people turn to engineered stone products. Others, however, will utilize a contrasting stone backsplash to get some of the color they want while having a durable and functional countertop.

Contrasting Color Island

One of the design challenges of using such strong color choices is that it can be too much. A strategy to avoid saturating the kitchen is to use different colors for the primary countertop and the kitchen island.

This is a great design for many reasons. First, it brings in more colors and patterns to create a more dynamic appearance in the kitchen. Second, it lets a designer choose a dark stone without making the kitchen too dark. Finally, it helps people make decisions when they don’t want to commit to just one stone. It’s not an either/or decision, it’s a yes/and decision, which is a lot easier to commit to.

Organic Shapes

Natural stone can be a difficult material to work with. The very hardness that makes it such a desirable countertop limited how it could be worked. Straight edges were easiest to achieve, and that’s what was offered. Plus, rectangular countertops are practical in a rectangular kitchen in a rectangular building.

However, sometimes people crave a little curve in their design. It can literally take the edge off a natural stone countertop to make it feel softer, even if it is still the same hard stone. Modern fabrication techniques mean that people can have these curves if they want them. People have responded enthusiastically to the option, adopting curved countertops in large numbers. This won’t become ubiquitous because many people still like the practicality of rectangles, but expect to see it a lot more in the future.

Waterfall Edge

For many years, people have been adopting the waterfall edge on their natural stone countertops. This is where the natural stone continues over the edge of the counter and extends to the floor, creating a uniform surface.

People like the elegant look of this finish. They appreciate that it gives their kitchen more visible stone surfaces. It also creates a more modern, minimalist appearance in the kitchen.

Multimodal

Although many people are looking for ways to bring more stone into their kitchen design, others are looking for ways to bring together disparate materials to create a multimodal kitchen design. This includes approaches that combine natural stone with other materials, especially wood.

The benefit of this approach is that in brings not just a contrast in color and pattern, but also in tactility. People can move from the cold, smooth stone to the warm, grained wood. It’s another way to avoid the potential for natural stone to overwhelm a kitchen design: reduce the amount of stone and bring in something less solid and heavy for contrast.

A common strategy is to have the kitchen prep surfaces made of stone, but the surfaces for eating and gathering made of a softer material.

Find Inspiration at The Stone Collection

These new trends can help you design the kitchen of your dreams using stone countertops, but making them work depends on finding just the right stone for you. That’s where The Stone Collection comes in, with our exclusive Get Inspired Experience.

You don’t need an appointment to browse our extensive collection of stone countertop slabs, including both natural and manufactured stone products. You can start by browsing on your own, just looking at the options, or you can immediately get assistance from one of our natural stone design experts. They’ll spend as much time with you as you need, first by listening to you describe your project, then by suggesting options to make your dreams a reality. They can help you balance your style and design ideas with the functional properties you need to have a kitchen that serves your needs not just today, but for years to come.

It’s easy to get started. You can contact us today, or you can just show up at one of our showrooms in Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Ft. Worth, or Salt Lake City when you’re ready to begin.

The post 2025 Natural Stone Countertop Trends appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

Stone countertops provide you with a premium material that elevates the look and value of any kitchen, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. If you’re considering stone countertops, there are a few materials that have been trending lately. The following rundown provides a discussion of some of the most popular stone countertop surfaces being used with kitchen remodels this year.

Quartz

Quartz countertops continue to dominate the market, and their popularity is only expected to grow in 2024. Engineered from natural quartz crystals and mixed with resins and pigments, quartz countertops offer an unbeatable combination of beauty and durability.

Quartz countertops are prized for their wide range of colors and patterns that can suit any aesthetic style. Whether you prefer a classic, elegant look or a contemporary, bold statement, there is a quartz countertop to match your vision. The manufacturing process allows for consistent patterns and colors, ensuring that the slab you choose will be exactly what you expect.

In addition to aesthetics, quartz countertops offer exceptional durability. They are non-porous, so they are resistant to stains and bacteria growth. As a result, quartz is an excellent choice for busy kitchens, where spills and moisture are common. This durability also means that quartz countertops are less likely to chip or crack, ensuring a long-lasting investment for your home.

Unlike natural stones like granite or marble, quartz countertops do not require sealing, saving you time and effort in maintenance.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a top contender when it comes to natural stone countertops. Formed from sandstone that has undergone intense heat and pressure, quartzite is renowned for its exceptional durability and stunning aesthetics.

One of the most significant advantages of quartzite countertops is their ability to withstand heat. This minimizes the risk of damage or discoloration if hot items are placed directly on the countertop. However, we still recommend always using hot pads or trivets as a precaution when placing hot pans on the surface of your countertop.

In terms of appearance, quartzite offers a wide range of colors and patterns, with veins and veining reminiscent of marble, but with added durability. The natural beauty of quartzite can enhance any kitchen, from sleek modern designs to traditional or rustic styles.

However, it’s important to understand that quartzite countertops require regular sealing to maintain their beauty and protect them from stains. This is because quartzite is a porous material and has tiny pores that can absorb liquids and stains. With proper care and maintenance, quartzite countertops can provide exquisite beauty and exceptional functionality for years to come.

Granite

Granite has long been a popular choice for countertops, and it continues to be highly sought after in 2024. This natural stone offers unmatched beauty, with its unique patterns and impressive color variations.

One of the most significant advantages of granite countertops is their durability. Granite is a hard stone that can withstand daily wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Additionally, granite is highly heat-resistant, making it a popular option for avid cooks.

Granite also offers a nearly endless variety of colors and patterns. Each slab of granite is unique, with its own blend of minerals and veining patterns. Whether you prefer a subtle, speckled appearance or a bold, dramatic pattern, you can find a granite countertop that perfectly complements your design style.

While granite is a durable material, it is also porous and requires sealing to prevent staining. Regular sealing is essential to maintain the longevity and beauty of your granite countertops. With proper care, granite countertops can last a long time and add timeless elegance to your space.

Marble

Marble countertops exude sophistication and luxury, making them a timeless and popular choice for homeowners. The natural veining patterns and soft color tones create a stunning visual impact that elevates any space.

Marble has long been associated with luxury and refinement. Its unique veining patterns and smooth, polished surface are unparalleled in beauty. Marble countertops can add a touch of elegance to any kitchen design, whether you prefer a classic, traditional aesthetic or a more modern, minimalist look.

One of the advantages of marble countertops is their heat resistance. While extended contact with high temperatures can still cause some damage, a well-maintained marble countertop should not be affected by an occasional hot item or short-term exposure to high temperatures.

However, it’s important to note that marble is a softer stone than granite or quartzite, and it is more prone to scratches and stains. Using cutting boards and exercising caution with acidic substances can help minimize the risk of damage.

Marble countertops require regular sealing to protect the surface from stains and etching. Some homeowners appreciate the patina that develops over time, while others prefer to maintain a pristine, polished look. The choice between honed and polished marble will depend on your desired aesthetic and maintenance preferences.

Soapstone

Soapstone countertops have gained popularity in recent years due to their unique beauty and excellent performance characteristics. This natural stone features a smooth, matte surface with stunning shades of gray.

Soapstone countertops offer a distinctive and slightly rugged appearance that adds character to any kitchen. The subtle veining and rich color variations make soapstone a versatile choice that complements various design styles, from traditional to contemporary.

One of the significant advantages of soapstone countertops is their heat resistance. Soapstone is also highly resistant to stains and bacteria, making it an excellent choice for kitchens, where hygiene is a priority.

Over time, soapstone develops a natural patina, giving it a unique and aged look. This characteristic adds to the charm of soapstone countertops and can hide any minor scratches or surface imperfections that may occur with use. However, if you prefer a more consistent appearance, you can apply a food-grade mineral oil to maintain the darker finish.

The Stone Collection Can Bring Your Vision to Life

If you’re looking for a beautiful stone countertop to elevate your upcoming kitchen remodel, The Stone Collection can help you select the right slab for your specific project. We carry the largest selection of natural and engineered stone products available, giving you confidence that we’ll have an option to complement your unique personal style.

Our exclusive Get Inspired Experience will help you get your creative juices flowing. Our stone design experts will discuss your aesthetic preferences and goals for the project in detail. Once we understand your specific needs, our team will recommend the right stone countertop surface to enhance your kitchen.

When you visit one of our gallery-style showrooms, our expert surface specialists will be able to show you a wide range of options that address your unique preferences. Our team is always monitoring the latest stone design trends, and we can provide you with the guidance necessary to ensure your new countertops enhance the enjoyment of your home for years to come.

No appointment is needed. Just stop by one of our showrooms in Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Dallas or Ft. Worth to find the right stone countertop for your kitchen remodel project.

Contact us today or visit a showroom to get the process started.

The post Most Popular Stone Countertop Surfaces for 2024 appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

One of the reasons for the timeless appeal of natural stone is its ability to elevate the aesthetics of any room in your house. Natural stone countertops can make a kitchen look stunningly beautiful or provide your bathroom with an opulent feel. Natural stone can also be used to create an accent wall that provides any living space with a statement piece. In addition, natural stone’s durability and versatility ensures you will receive exceptional value that will enhance the enjoyment of your home for years to come.

While the popularity of natural stone is strong as ever, we’re noticing some new trends in 2024 that should inform your upcoming home remodel projects.

Innovative Textures and Finishes

We’re seeing an increasing number of homeowners opt for natural stone countertops that have more innovative textures and finishes. Some of the options that are trending include:

• Leathered finishes providing a tactile experience
• Hammered textures that give your countertops added depth and dimension
• Honed and matte finishes that give your countertops a glossy sheen

Adventurous Color Choices and Patterns

2024 Natural Stone Design Trends

In recent years, neutral tones were very popular. But now, we’re starting to see a move towards more adventurous colors with natural stone features. Whether you’re using natural stone for a kitchen countertop, fireplace surround, accent wall or kitchen backsplash, bold, vibrant colors will add a touch of personality that makes your feature stand out.

Some of the bold colors that are trending right now include:

• Rich blues
• Deep greens
• Striking blacks

We’re also seeing a rise in popularity of bold veining and patterns in natural stone applications. Just as striking colors will make your countertop or accent wall stand out, so will prominent veining and eye-catching patterns.

Bookmatched Stone Pieces

Bookmatching, a technique that creates symmetrical patterns by aligning two or more slabs in a mirror image layout, is extremely popular right now. Bookmatched stone is a great option for accent walls, shower walls, bar tops and fireplace surrounds, giving your home a statement piece that will leave guests commenting on its stunning beauty and elegant design.

Mixing and Matching Different Natural Stones

One of the common themes among these trends is a desire for stone features to stand out. Another way homeowners are achieving this goal is by mixing and matching different natural stones. This approach creates contrasting colors, textures and patterns that can be truly eye-popping.

Some popular combinations include mixing marble and slate slabs or granite and limestone slabs. A variety of semiprecious stones are used in this manner too. The options for natural stone combinations are virtually limitless, and this technique will give your home something that is truly one of a kind.

Oversized Stone Slabs

Large format, oversized stone slabs are also trending this year. They reduce the seams on kitchen and bathroom countertops, creating a cleaner look.

The Stone Collection Can Bring Your Vision to Life

If you’re looking for some innovative ideas for your upcoming home remodel project, The Stone Collection can help get your creative juices flowing. We carry the largest selection of natural stone products available, ensuring we have an option that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and personal style.

Our exclusive Get Inspired Experience has been created to help you bring your vision to life. When you visit one of our gallery-style showrooms, one of our expert surface specialists will engage you in a detailed conversation about your upcoming project to understand your goals. Once we understand what you’re trying to achieve and the specific aesthetic you prefer, we’ll recommend the right natural stone projects to enhance your home.

Our surface specialists are always staying current on the latest trends, and we can provide the guidance you need to ensure your natural stone feature looks modern and will provide you with enjoyment for years to come.

No appointment is needed. Simply stop into one of our showrooms in Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Dallas or Ft. Worth to get the process started.

Contact us today or visit a showroom to find the right natural stone slab and application for your next project.

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What Is Bookmatched Stone?

Bookmatching occurs when two or more natural or engineered stone slabs are mirrored to match the pattern, movement, and veining found in the material. When the slabs are placed end to end, the veining and movement continue from one slab into the other, creating a continuous flow or pattern.

Stones with strong movement and veining are best suited for bookmatching. Many varieties of natural stone, including marble, quartzite, granite, and travertine contain the right movement and characteristics for a bookmatch. Stone slabs can even be quad-matched, where four slabs in lieu of two are matched up in veining and movement to create an even more impactful statement.

What Is Bookmatched Stone?

How Do You Bookmatch Stone?

In order to create the mirror image effect associated with bookmatching, large blocks of natural stone are brought to a processing plant from the quarry. These blocks are cut into slabs using a specialized tool called a gang saw, which contains an extremely sharp blade that makes precision cuts in the stone.

These slabs are then laid flat and polished to reveal the finer details and characteristics of the stone. Instead of polishing randomly as is standard with other stone design techniques, bookmatched slabs are polished on opposite sides. This creates two slabs that are identical copies of one another. When they’re placed side by side, they open up like a book, providing a kaleidoscopic mirror image pattern.

What Are the Best Applications for Bookmatched Stone?

The goal of bookmatched stone is to create a stunning statement piece that can be admired for its beauty and uniqueness. To maximize the impact of a bookmatched stone piece, it’s best to display it on a large area that commands attention. This will give your bookmatched pattern the best ability to shine and create a dramatic effect.

Some of the most common applications for bookmatched stone include:

• Accent walls
• Fireplaces
• Shower walls
• Bar tops or tables
• Large kitchen islands
• Water features

Since you want to place the patterns and shapes of the stone on full display, you should avoid using bookmatched stone in small spaces. In addition, avoid disrupting the stone patterns by appliances or other items that will diminish from the dramatic impact of the piece.

How to Care for Bookmatched Stone

How to Care for Bookmatched Stone

Caring for bookmatched stone is essential to maintain its elegance and durability over time. To ensure its longevity, regular cleaning and careful maintenance are crucial. Cleaning bookmatched stone requires gentle, yet effective methods to avoid damage and preserve its distinct appearance:

• Use a pH-neutral, non-abrasive stone cleaner or a mild dish soap diluted in water to clean the surface
• Apply the solution with a soft, microfiber cloth, ensuring that you don’t use abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the stone
• For tougher stains, avoid acidic or harsh cleaning agents and opt for a poultice specifically designed for natural stone to draw out stubborn stains without causing harm
• Always blot spills immediately to prevent the stone from absorbing liquids, which might cause discoloration or etching.

Preventing damage and preserving the appearance of bookmatched stone involves several practices:

• Avoid using acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon juice, or any cleaners containing ammonia, as they can cause etching or dull the stone’s surface
• Place coasters or mats under glasses, particularly those containing acidic or colored liquids, to shield the surface from potential damage
• Use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware or dishes to prevent thermal shock or discoloration
• Regularly reseal the stone to maintain its protective layer against stains and moisture
• Avoid using abrasive materials or sharp objects that could scratch or chip the surface

By following these maintenance tips and being cautious in its daily use, bookmatched stone can retain its beauty and integrity for years to come.

How Much Does Bookmatched Stone Cost?

Due to the large size of the stone slabs required and the detailed fabrication process associated with the bookmatching technique, bookmatched stone is typically more expensive than other stone design layouts. Bookmatching requires a much higher level of craftsmanship than is necessary for other stone design layouts, and you achieve a much more complex and nuanced design.

The good news is that bookmatched stone delivers tremendous value for this increased cost. The quality of the finished product is unparalleled, and you’ll enjoy a stunning piece that becomes a focal point of the room. Even if you decide to change the interior décor of the room at a later date, you can still keep the bookmatched stone centerpiece as an item to build around.

The Stone Collection Can Elevate Your Home with a Bookmatched Stone Masterpiece

The Stone Collection Can Elevate Your Home with a Bookmatched Stone Masterpiece

If you’re looking to enhance your upcoming home redesign with a stone feature, bookmatched stone is an excellent option. At the Stone Collection, we can help bring your vision to life. We carry the largest selection of natural and engineered stone products, ensuring we can find the right option to create a stunning bookmatched stone feature that aligns with your unique needs and style preferences.

Our exclusive Get Inspired Experience has been designed to help stimulate your creativity. When you visit one of our gallery-style showrooms, you can discuss your project with one of our expert surface specialists who can help you identify the right stone for your bookmatched piece. We often will help assist with stone slab viewings in our showrooms to help you see what a bookmatch may look like with particular stones.

Our team can handle the entire project for you, including the design, fabrication and installation phases of the process. This gives you peace of mind that your bookmatched stone piece will be created with the expert craftsmanship necessary to deliver a stunning outcome.

No appointment is required. Simply drop by and one of our expert surface specialists will help you get the process started. We have showrooms in Denver, Dallas, Fort Worth, Salt Lake City and Phoenix.

Contact us today or visit one of our showrooms to find the best stone slab for your next project.

The post What Does It Mean to Bookmatch Stone Slabs? appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

Fortunately, engineered quartz meets those criteria and more. You can’t go wrong with this popular stone that offers consistency and durability. Not to be confused with natural quartzite, engineered quartz is man-made from ground quartz, resin, and pigments. This manufactured stone slab will last in the busiest of kitchens and is easy to maintain and clean.

Discover The Stone Collection’s deep offering of engineered quartz, guaranteed to make your kitchen dazzle and make everyday use a breeze.

Caesarstone Quartz

Caesarstone engineered quartz combines nature and technology, featuring nonporous surfaces that are resistant to stains and scratches. Requiring only a damp, soft cloth and soap to clean, you’ll find something you love and more among the more than 60 color options.

A global leader and pioneer in premium engineered quartz, Caesarstone invented the category in 1987, long before the trends of sleek, white quartz kitchens adorned the pages of social media feeds. Caesarstone quartz has been designed, manufactured, and marketed to guarantee durability and lasting beauty, indoors and out.

For an outdoor kitchen, Caesarstone offers UV-stable quartz with a stabilizer in the resin that absorbs and screens out ultraviolet radiation, preventing sun damage. The Outdoor Collection has several color options.

Caesarstone has a lifetime warranty and is available in concrete, honed, polished, natural, and rough finishes.

Pure Surfaces Quartz

Pure Surfaces engineered quartz slabs boast the look of natural marble, with each slab showcasing varying vein colors and patterns against a bright, white background. The veining is similar to dimensional, natural marble. The sharp veining and depth combined with the strength of quartz will make your countertop unique and beautiful.

Pure provides an exemplary aesthetic more than many other quartz materials. Superior minerals combined with high-purity quartz create beautiful designs while delivering over twice the flex strength and twice the impact strength of traditional quartz surfacing.

Discover Pure Surfaces at any of The Stone Collection showrooms in a polished finish in over six colors.

Diresco Quartz

Crafted in Belgium, Diresco offers a UV-resistant quartz slab for use outdoors. A plant-based bio-UV resin and pigment make Diresco a sustainable quartz option and is available in eight different colors.

Envision clean lines and sustainable worktops, countertops, stairs, floors, or wall applications. Diresco is resistant to stains and scratches, is easy to clean, and is recyclable. It has a 10-year warranty and is available in a velvet or polished finish in eight colors at The Stone Collection.

Choosing your stone

No matter what stone you select for your countertops, you can find it at The Stone Collection. As an importer and distributor of the finest natural and engineered premium hard surfaces, we work with only the top quarries and manufacturers worldwide to bring you an unparalleled collection of slabs and tile.

The post Benefits of Engineered Quartz Countertops for Your Kitchen appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

DENVER, CO, Release: 2/22/22
For Immediate Release

Annually, The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), owners of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), recognizes design professionals and projects that set the bar for how we live, work, and entertain. Each design and industry award reflects the purpose of the NKBA – to envision a world where everyone enjoys safe, beautiful, and functional kitchen and bath spaces. This year’s awards ceremony took place on February 7, 2022, at the Rosen Centre Hotel, during KBIS in Orlando, Florida.

The sold-out ceremony, presented by NKBA’s CEO Bill Darcy and EVP Suzie Williford, featured 28 total awards, including NKBA Student Design Competition winners and Innovative Showroom Awards Competition winners. The Stone Collection, a leading importer and distributor of high-quality natural stone and luxury hard surfaces, received the Innovative Showroom Award in the Multi-Location, Large category.

The Stone Collection Managing Director, Alan Odom, Denver General Manager Joe Vinci, and Senior Associate Ty Malechek accept the NKBA Innovative Showroom Award in Orlando, FL.

The Innovative Showroom Awards recognize the most original, creative, and experiential kitchen and bath showrooms in North America, focusing on spaces that engage customers in unique and memorable ways. Among the honorees are creative design professionals, including architects, designers, furniture makers, and more. This year’s Innovative Showroom Awards judges featured leaders in kitchen, bath, and interior design.

Designed by renowned architecture and consulting firm Gensler, and spanning North America, The Stone Collection showrooms are anchored by floor-to-ceiling water features in exotic natural stone. Once inside a showroom, clients experience large birch or Ficus trees that lead into spacious welcome centers.

Skylights and windows throughout the space introduce maximum daylight, allowing hard surfaces to shine. Unique dark galleries are included for viewing translucent, semi-precious stones. Large conference rooms, multiple bar tops, and flat-screen televisions make each Stone Collection space a fantastic contender for industry events and continuing education courses. Customers step out of the showroom and into temperature-controlled stone slab galleries; there, they are met with high-definition LED lighting, clean, wide rows, and a selection of nearly 15,000 stone slabs imported from over 35 countries.

About The Stone Collection
The Stone Collection imports and distributes only the highest quality natural and engineered stone available from over 35 countries worldwide. Open to the public for selection purposes. The company has award-winning showrooms in Colorado, Texas, Arizona, Utah, and Florida. For more information, visit www.thestonecollection.com or call 303-307-8100.

About the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS). With nearly 50,000 members in all kitchen and bath design and remodeling segments, the NKBA has educated and led the industry since the association’s founding in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to inspire, lead and empower the kitchen and bath industry through professional certifications and learning, community, and events. For more information, visit www.nkba.org.

For a complete list of Innovative Showroom Award recipients and all others, please visit the NKBA website.

###

MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Joshua Ellison
303-307-8100
jellison@thestonecollection.com 

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Bookmatching

A book match is created when two consecutive slabs of stone from the same block are placed side by side, mirroring the pattern like the pages of an open book. This remarkable effect can highlight a fireplace, feature wall, or any area of significance that you want to stand out.

You can achieve book matching with, for example, any stone with bold, impactful veining, such as Blue Marine quartzite or Botanic Wave quartzite. Blue Marine quartzite will transport you to the sea with its sporadic circular and linear veining, reminiscent of water. Botanic Wave quartzite is a limited vein with a combination of greens, browns, and creams.

Waterfall Edges

Waterfall edges have gained in popularity over the last few years and will add a dramatic touch to your countertop. By continuing the countertop edge at a 90-degree angle and extending it all the way to the floor, this countertop edge style produces a modern look for your kitchen or home bar.

You can create a waterfall edge with just about any stone. Natural stones lend themselves well to waterfall edges through their veining and unique colors. For example, Lemurian Blue granite is a natural stone with shades of blue, green, and charcoal. In addition, it is rich in labradorite deposits, a mineral whose internal fractures reflect light, creating an iridescence in the slab. Another natural stone, Taj Mahal quartzite, has soft cream tones with light brown and gold veining. Its veining resembles marble, but it is a much denser stone, which helps you avoid etching or staining.

Gallery Pieces

Like a work of art, a gallery piece of stone is a stunning way to highlight a wall, perhaps in your family room, above your fireplace, or behind your bed.

Consider stones with impressive, bold veining or vibrant colors and designs when choosing a gallery piece. Lilac marble makes a statement with purple veins running through a neutral background to offer a unique color and look. Portinari and Cielo marble offer up dynamic swirls of cream, beige, and gray, creating an effect of fluid movement.

Integrated sinks and bathtubs

A sink or bathtub is considered “integrated” with the countertop when both are made of the same materials. An integrated sink creates a streamlined design, making cleaning a breeze. Both natural and engineered stones with low water absorption, such as a natural Quartzite like Giotto or a Semiprecious slab like Brown Petrified Wood, can be used to create integrated designs.

Slab Backsplashes

A slab backsplash is a sleek alternative to tile that is easy to clean, a must for the kitchen. Elegant options include natural stones like Serenity Blue quartzite and Arabescato Orobico marble. Serenity Blue Quartzite can add a dynamic touch to your kitchen with its blue steel and sandy beige colors. It can also offer exceptional strength, being a natural quartzite. Arabescato Orobico marble showcases a combination of grey shades for a polished and prestigious look.

For more information about the many stone options available for your remodeling project, visit The Stone Collection resource center or find a showroom near you.

The post Ideas for designing a one-of-a-kind home with stone appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

Natural Stone

A large block of Copacabana Granite

Natural stone is quarried from the earth in blocks, processed into cut slabs or tiles, and then transformed into countertops, walls, floors, and more. Different colors and patterns in stone are developed by minerals that have formed deep within the earth over time. The mineral make-up also determines the relative hardness of any given stone. Examples of popular natural stones include but are not limited to: granite, marble, and quartzite.

Because of its hardness, low absorption, and resistance to high temperatures, granite is popular for countertops, floors, and other heavily-trafficked areas. In addition, granite is resistant to most household chemicals. Because of its hardness, it is also highly resistant to abrasion and scratching. Granite colors vary significantly from more expensive exotic blues and reds to more affordable traditional color palates. At The Stone Collection, we proudly stock hundreds of colors of granite.

Admired for its veining, marble is popular for bathrooms, foyers, floors, walls, and hearths. It is becoming more popular in the kitchen; however, it is not as durable as granite. In addition, it is vulnerable to abrasion and acidic solutions such as lemon juice, tomatoes, red wine, and vinegar, which can etch the surface and require continuous maintenance.

Quartzite is one of the most durable natural stones made up of 100% natural quartz grain, with hardness and resistance similar to granite. As a result, quartzite has become a prevalent choice for countertops due to its visual similarities to marble and its greater durability.

Learn about other natural stones, including onyx, travertine, soapstone, and more, on our products page.

Engineered Stone

Backlit Semiprecious Agate Grey

Engineered stone is a manufactured product, while natural stone comes from the earth’s surface. A combination of natural elements and man-made materials combine to create a vast array of color and pattern options. In addition, engineered stones can be customized during manufacturing to achieve the same look as natural stones without requiring as much ongoing maintenance.

The Stone Collection’s engineered stone products include quartz and porcelain, as well as semi-precious stones. Semi-precious stone slabs are made of rare gems and crystals and bound with a resin. Many are semi-translucent and can be backlit to create ambiance.

Quartz and porcelain are top-engineered surface choices due to the range of styles, colors, and low maintenance properties. Porcelain is often chosen due to its ability to mimic other hard surface materials, including natural stone, wood, and concrete. Porcelain is ideal for flooring, walls, and patios.

Quartz is another option to consider, gaining popularity due to its nonporous, durable make-up and attractive veining options similar to marble. Top brands of quartz, including Caesarstone, offer over 70 colors and patterns, ideal for countertops and bathroom vanities.

For more information about the many stone options available for your remodeling project, visit The Stone Collection resource center, or find a showroom near you.

Caesarstone 5212 Taj Royale Quartz

The post How do you know which stone is right for you? appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.

Quartz is an engineered or man-made product that is often specified because it can provide a consistent aesthetic. Made through a manufacturing process using ground quartz, resin, and pigments, engineered quartz is a highly durable and beautiful premium hard surface option available in many design styles, including natural stone-like looks and modern concrete colors. Engineered quartz is used in residential and commercial applications due to its ease of maintenance and resistance to heat, scratching, and staining.

What is Quartzite?

Taj Mahal Quartzite

Quartzite is a naturally occurring, metamorphic rock formed from Sandstone. When Sandstone comes into contact with magma buried deep within the earth’s surface, quartzite forms from natural quartz grain. Quartzite can be of exceptional strength, density, and hardness. Quartzite is highly sought after for kitchen countertop applications due to its similar veining and color palate to Marble, but with much higher resistance to everyday chemicals. Although all quartzites are not 100% non-porous, the abrasion resistance and weathering durability of quartzite allow for its use in almost any application. Quartzites with a honed finish require proper sealing.

The difference between quartz and quartzite is simple

Quartz is an engineered, man-made product manufactured in a factory by combining elements of quartz, resin, and pigment. Alternatively, quartzite is a natural stone that forms 100% organically deep within the earth that is extracted in blocks by quarrying.

We stock the highest quality quartzite and quartz slabs

Calacatta Borghio quartz mimics the highly sought-after natural Calacatta Borghini Marble

Hand selecting only the top 1-3% of natural stone available, our natural quartzite is of exceptional quality and durability. In addition to our quality, our depth of in-stock quartzite slabs is second-to-none. To read more about how we select our natural stone slabs and what sets us apart, click here. We also stock the most premium brands and colors in engineered quartz, including Caesarstone, the world’s oldest and highest-quality quartz brand, and Diresco, a premium line of sustainable quartz. In addition, recent advances in manufacturing have opened the door to a wide variety of new engineered quartz patterns, including many with the look of marble. Our newest line of engineered quartz, Pure Surfaces, features eight different marble-like looks. From a calacatta or carrara look, and everything in between, these modern and chic engineered quartz countertops meet today’s design challenges and everyday life.

Quartz vs. Quartzite: Which stone is best for my project?

Caesarstone quartz Cloudburst Concrete

In conclusion, while one of these stones is a man-made, engineered stone (quartz), and the other a product of nature (quartzite), both are high-quality options depending on your project. Both quartz and quartzite are ideal hard surface options for kitchen countertops, bars, bathroom vanities, fireplace surrounds, tables, and more. Choosing between these two slab options comes down to personal preference, aesthetics, and project requirements. Whether you select quartz, quartzite, or any of our other gorgeous stones, our stone specialists will assist you in finding the perfect hard surface for your project’s needs.

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We recently teamed up with Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine to share a little bit about The Stone Collection and how our journey started. Scroll on to discover more about our incredible depth of selection, showroom experience, and our new Marble Of The World facility located in Pompano Beach, Florida.

Pretoria Dual Finish granite brings the drama.

Ask any design pro or homeowner which rooms often prove most challenging during a renovation, and the kitchen or bath will likely play into the answer. These spaces demand unparalleled function, and their relative lack of personality-imbued accessories makes customizing more subtle.

But ask The Stone Collection and Marble Of The World for a solution, and you’ll find the secret lies in stone. Whether you’re going for the all-white kitchen or a jewel-box bathroom full of colorful veining, the pair of leading importers and distributors have a treasure trove ripe for exploration.

An exotic Aphrodite Labradorite countertop makes a shimmering statement.

FROM WEST TO EAST

Since getting its start in Denver, The Stone Collection has expanded to include showrooms in Dallas, Fort Worth, Phoenix and Salt Lake City. Its acquisition of Marble Of The World broadens the horizons further with locations in Miami, Palm City and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the latter of which is relocating to Pompano Beach with an opening scheduled for April of this year. At every location, the public and trade alike can access the premier possibilities for which The Stone Collection is known.

Dark galleries like this one enable optimal viewing of translucent, semiprecious stones.

“This partnership brings enhanced inventory, selection and customer service to clients,” says Alan Odom, who acts as managing director for The Stone Collection alongside Mike Hitchcock. “Not only can we now bring our uncompromising standard of product to customers in Florida, but the acquisition has given us the opportunity to build an all-new state-of-the-art facility that will replace Marble Of The World’s previous Fort Lauderdale showroom.”

The new 110,000-square-foot location in Pompano Beach will offer a unique shopping experience with more than 10 individually curated product galleries showcasing the real-life application of both natural and engineered stones. Not to mention, the showroom was designed by renowned architecture and consulting firm Gensler, in keeping with The Stone Collection’s tradition. The brand’s showrooms make the shopping experience comparable to walking through a museum.

Ample space within each showroom makes hosting events and CEU courses an option, too.

NATURAL, ENGINEERED, LUXURIOUS

When you embark on an update to the home, variety is certainly the spice of life. The more options there are to choose from, the more creative and individualized a space can become. Scouring quarries in more than 35 countries, the import team for The Stone Collection and Marble Of The World treks the globe in an effort to offer up a diverse selection.

From cross-cut to vein-cut, quartzite to granite or marble, the company has a robust selection of premium natural stone. But it also carries the luminaries of engineered product: Caesarstone, Neolith, Vetrazzo, Geoluxe, and the like. With a veritably endless selection and a staff praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, the brands’ mission statement—“enriching environments by sharing our passion for beautiful stone”—would seem apt indeed.

The post Your Next Residential or Commercial Project Deserves Premium Stone appeared first on The Stone Collection - Stone Countertops.