Marble vs Granite: What’s the Difference & Which One Is Better?
What Are Marble and Granite?
Marble is a metamorphic rock, formed when limestone is subjected to high heat and pressure beneath the Earth’s surface. Its signature veining comes from mineral impurities and makes it a favorite for classical and elegant spaces.
Granite, on the other hand, is an igneous rock, formed from cooled molten magma. It’s made of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica, giving it a coarse, speckled look and superior hardness.
🎨 Appearance & Aesthetic
Marble typically features soft, flowing veins with a smooth, elegant surface. Common colors include white,
cream, and light gray with gold or gray veining.
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Granite has a granular, speckled pattern, offering a bolder look. It comes in a wide range of colors, including blacks, browns, blues, and greens.
Best For:
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Marble: Traditional, luxurious, or classic interiors
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Granite: Modern, rustic, or eclectic spaces
💪 Durability & Hardness
When it comes to toughness, granite wins.
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Granite is extremely hard (rated around 6–7 on the Mohs scale). It's resistant to scratching, chipping, and heat, making it ideal for kitchens and high-traffic areas.
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Marble is softer (around 3–5 on the Mohs scale). It can scratch or etch more easily, especially from acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar.
⚠️ Tip: If you’re placing hot pots, granite is more forgiving.
🧼 Maintenance & Care
Marble requires more attention, while granite is lower maintenance.
| Stone | Maintenance Needs |
|---|---|
| Marble | Needs regular sealing, sensitive to acids |
| Granite | Seal once a year, very stain-resistant |
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Marble: Use pH-neutral cleaners; reseal every 6–12 months. Avoid acid-based products.
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Granite: Wipe clean with mild soap; more resistant to household chemicals.
💰 Cost & Value
Prices can vary based on origin, rarity, and finish.
| Feature | Marble | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per m² | $80–$250+ | $50–$150+ |
| Installation | More delicate to handle | Easier, more durable |
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Marble is often considered a luxury material.
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Granite offers affordable durability, especially in kitchens.
🏠 Popular Uses
Marble is best for:
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Bathroom vanities
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Decorative walls or columns
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Low-traffic flooring
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Fireplace surrounds
Granite is best for:
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Kitchen countertops
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Outdoor kitchens
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Flooring in high-use areas
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Commercial spaces
✅ Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Marble | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Veined, elegant | Speckled, bold |
| Hardness | Softer (scratches easier) | Harder, more durable |
| Maintenance | Needs frequent sealing | Low-maintenance |
| Stain Resistance | Prone to stains and etching | Highly stain-resistant |
| Price | Mid–High | Low–Mid |
| Best Use | Bathrooms, feature walls | Kitchens, flooring, outdoors |
🧠 Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose marble if you want elegance, are designing a low-traffic area, and don’t mind maintenance.
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Choose granite if you need durability, easy care, and a wider range of color choices.
Still not sure? Think about:
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Your budget
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Where the stone will be used
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How much time you're willing to spend on care
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is granite or marble better for a kitchen?
A: Granite is more resistant to heat, stains, and scratches—better suited for kitchens.
Q: Does marble need sealing?
A: Yes, it’s porous and should be sealed every 6–12 months to prevent staining.
Q: Is granite more affordable than marble?
A: Typically, yes. Granite tends to be more cost-effective and widely available.
Q: Can marble be used outside?
A: It’s not ideal outdoors due to weather sensitivity and potential discoloration.
E-mail: solo@newstarstone.com
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