Marble and granite are both natural stones, but they behave differently. Choosing the right one for each part of a project saves money and maintenance later.
What they are
Marble is a metamorphic rock made mostly of calcite. It is the softer of the two, with veining and soft colours. Granite is an igneous rock made mostly of quartz and feldspar. It is harder and denser, with a grained, speckled look.
At a glance
| Marble | Granite | |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Softer, about 3 on the Mohs scale | Harder, about 6 to 7 |
| Scratches | Scratches more easily | Very scratch-resistant |
| Acids (lemon, vinegar) | Can etch and dull the surface | Not affected in normal use |
| Care | Seal regularly; clean with pH-neutral products | Easy to clean; seal occasionally |
| Look | Veining and soft tones | Grains and speckles, wide colour range |
| Best for | Floors, walls, stairs, bathrooms | Kitchen worktops, paving, facades, busy floors |
Kitchens
Granite is usually the better choice for worktops. It resists heat, scratches and stains, and acidic food will not mark it. Marble can be used in kitchens, but it needs more care and will show wear over time.
Floors
Both work well. Marble gives a classic, bright floor and is a favourite for living areas and lobbies; granite stands up best to very heavy traffic. In bathrooms and other wet areas, choose a honed or textured finish rather than a polished one, which is more slippery when wet.
Stairs
Both are common. Outdoors, granite with a flamed or sandblasted finish gives the best grip.
Outdoors
Granite is the most durable choice for paving, facades and landscaping. Marble is also used outside, especially for walls and facades.
Cost
Price depends more on the variety, thickness and finish than on whether the stone is marble or granite. Egyptian stone often costs less than comparable imported stone: Galala Extra, for example, is more affordable than Spanish Crema Marfil.
Our recommendation
- Kitchen worktops: granite such as Halayeb, Black Aswan or Red Aswan.
- Living areas and lobbies: marble such as Galala Extra or Zafarana.
- Paving and outdoor stairs: granite with a flamed finish, such as Grey El Sherka or New Halayeb.
Not sure which suits your project? Tell us about it and we will recommend a stone and finish.