Gone are the days when a black countertop was strictly reminiscent of the flashy ornamentation of the ‘80s. Modern black granite countertops are preferred by homeowners who like to add boldness to their décor. They offer the same timeless beauty as white marble and are poised for a comeback. In fact, according to one industry research report, the black granite market will witness massive growth between 2019 and 2025. And rightly so, as there are few materials so versatile. Whether you want your kitchen to be a timeless space or give off an industrial vibe, black granite can do both.
Reasons to Love Black Granite Countertops
The best part of this type of granite countertop is that it suits any style of kitchen or bathroom. Whether you have rustic, classic or luxurious décor, you can be sure that a black granite countertop will make your space stand out. Along with its captivating appearance, black granite also has a lot of functionality. Like all granites, it’s strong and durable. Some may fear that adding a black kitchen countertop will dull the ambience of the space. However, if you plan according to your specific space and practical needs, a dark granite countertop, with its wide variety, can be an excellent addition to your home.
Types of Black Granite
Let’s take a look at its different types:
Based on the Polishing
Granite needs to go through a finishing process prior to being cut. Based on this, you can either give your product a honed or polished finish. Polished granite is more traditional but also has a sleek, lustrous appearance.
- Honed Black Granite
A honed finish is basically where the buffing and polishing process is stopped right before the surface becomes too shiny and reflective. It’s meant to achieve a matte or satin look. Granite has some inherent characteristics which a lack of polish helps hide. However, many homeowners prefer the charm of its subtle colours and textures.
Honed granite is far less processed than polished granite but costs more because not all warehouses carry it as it’s not as popular.
Maintaining honed black granite is also difficult due to its porous surface being vulnerable to stains and water absorption. As a precaution, it should be resealed far more frequently than other granite products.
- Polished Black Granite
Polished black granite is the result of a lot of buffing and polishing, and the result almost looks like a mirror. The clean, bright and prominent sparkle of embedded flakes and crystals make this a popular choice. Not only that but the thorough polishing process also helps seal the pores of the stone, making maintenance and care easy.
For a kitchen countertop that will be frequently used, polished black granite is a good choice as it also hides hints of wear & tear. In fact, with proper sealing, you can almost eliminate any such signs on the product.
Based on Colour
Black granites come in different shades which occur thanks to variable secondary colours present in the material, such as white, blue, green and grey. The more textured the black granite, the more it resembles natural stone.
The most popular black granite types based on colour are Black Galaxy, Black Pearl, Agatha Black, Impala Black and Absolute Black.
What does each type have to offer?
- Black Galaxy Granite
Black Galaxy Granite countertops come originally from South India and have a medium grain of bright sheen and gold flecks. Guaranteed to add amazing visual appeal to any kitchen space, this type of granite is perfect for achieving a minimalist charm in modern kitchens.
- Black Pearl Granite
A completely dazzling piece of granite, the Black Pearl countertop has a semi-solid colour tone and flecks of brown, green, black, gold and silver. It comes in different finishes and can be used both inside and outside.
If you love the combination of white cabinets with granite countertops, Black Pearl fits best.
- Agatha Black Granite
Black granite countertops make a bold statement, but Agatha Black granite makes the boldest statement. The presence of graceful white veins softens the strong black colour of the stone. When you install this in your kitchen, its elegance and beauty will create a soothing effect. This unadulterated version of granite is completely natural.
- Impala Black Granite
Impala Black granite type is sometimes considered to be in the same category as grey granite due to its colour and grain structure.
- Absolute Black Granite
This pitch-black granite is a simple, elegant product that offers a clean look.
- Indian Black Granite
This dense and compact stone features rice grain-like effects.
- Cambrian Black Granite
Just like Indian Black granite, Cambrian Black Granite also features a rice grain-like effect, along with a silvery reflection.
- Uba Tuba Granite
Among black granites, this is one of the best options. Quarried in Brazil, it comes with gold, brown or white speckles. Since no two Uba Tuba granite slabs are alike, you may need to go through a few choices before finding one you like.
Homeowners who appreciate great style and quality love black granite countertops. They’re timeless in terms of both their beauty and practicality. To enjoy their finesse, consult a local granite countertop expert.