There Stones Harder Than Marble

Marble is considered to be a strong hard stone even though its primary mineral calcite only has a mohs hardness of 3.

There stones harder than marble.

While definitely not a cheap countertop option the look and endurance of stone make it well worth the cost. Additionally quartzite requires significantly less long term maintenance than marble. Quartzite is a much harder material than marble which decreases its susceptibility to regular wear and tear or other damages such as scratches and stains. A closer look at hard stone countertops.

It is resistant to heat and can easily withstand hot cookware therefore it is perfect for kitchen tops. Granite is harder than marble so it is more resistant to chips and scratches. While not as hard as granite and gemstone these surfaces are still very hard and are unlikely to scratch. Slightly softer than granite and gemstone quartzite quartz and onyx each rank at a 7 on the mohs scale.

Marble is also susceptible to fading of color and becoming duller overtime. Quartzite on the other hand is a non. Installed marble countertops start at around 100 square foot and can go over 200. Soapstone contains one of the softest minerals in nature talc thus bringing it down on the scale at between a 3 5 to a 5 depending on the quality and quarry.

Granite is less expensive than marble starting at roughly 75 square foot installed and 100 more than that for higher end stone. Falling down on the scale a little more are popular countertop options marble travertine and slate. Because marble is a porous material it should be resealed. Marble is a degree or two less and though it is still a very hard stone it s rating on the mohs scale is about a 5.