The choice between marble and engineered materials depends on the aesthetic effects you want to achieve and how much use or abuse the stone will be subjected to. Whether it's quartz, porcelain/ceramic, concrete, or even plastic, these engineered materials attempt to imitate the beautiful looks of marble. However, there is still difficulties in achieving that natural vibrant pattern and color. Although porcelain and quartz are getting really.....close!
Natural stones are quarried from the earth, granite, marble and marble's relatives - limestone, onyx, and travertine are very different from each other. However, for simplicity sake, and speaking only in terms of a design standpoint, marble carries the most artistic look out of the natural stones. (Generally speaking)
Marble stone is among the most elegant and luxurious of stones and weathers through time. Marble's beauty has lasted for generations and is versatile enough for any design use. There is a misconception of marble because it is in demand right now, that people think it's "a trend". But marble has been "trending" since before Egyptians used limestone to build their pyramids or Romans creating their grand palaces with Carrara marble, to Kanye West or Adam Levine decorating their entire home with beautiful Italian marble.
Natural marble has always held its status of luxury, elegance, and beauty. Time over time, man has attempted to replicate this beauty to lessen the cost and ease the production. It's the same as diamonds. The real beauty of diamonds is not just the glimmer and status, but also its inherent flaws that make it beautiful.
There is a certain class, just as most people who appreciate diamonds won't ever even consider synthetic diamonds. Might be a lot cheaper and look very much like real diamonds. BUT, it simply isn't the real deal.
Engineered stones have really stirred up the market, especially in the construction industry. It's easier to maintain, faster to produce, and cheaper. Some engineered stones such as engineered quartz are much more durable and functional than marble. The structure is far more resistant to abrasions, staining, and discoloration than most marbles. Denser and stronger than all natural stones, which is an excellent choice for high traffic areas.
It is ideal for kitchen countertops, accent islands, bar tops, dining tables, flooring- the options are endless!
Engineered products aren't a bad way to go either. It really depends on what you are going for. Every person has different desires, needs, wants, so what is yours?
Man made materials are very consistent because it is a mass produced product. You can find our previous article about how to identify real marble and fake. Basically, engineered stones contain the same pattern throughout the slab. Of course, in a natural material you will always have a few areas with inclusions of feldspar or mica, “breaks in the pattern.”
Are you a person that enjoys natural materials or new world materials?
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