1. What is the difference between quartz, quartzite, granite & Marble?
Quartz is an artificial material, whereas granite is a natural stone that varies from slab to slab. Quartzite is a natural stone, much like granite and marble. Marble, like granite and quartzite, is a natural stone as well, but it is made of calcium which makes it more porous compared to other natural stones. For a more in-depth understanding of these materials, you can visit the Our Products page.
2. What is porcelain?
Porcelain is a popular material that is made from a non-porous clay. The clay is heated at very high temperatures to turn it into porcelain. Porcelain is widely used in Europe and is now becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Emerald Pearl is one of the few porcelain fabricators in North Carolina. The stone has a resemblance to marble and granite but is more durable and has the added benefits of being scratch, heat, liquid, and UV light resistant.
3. What are the different levels and what does that mean?
The different levels are a simple way to categorize stone by price. For example, if it is easier to get a material the lower the price and level it will be. The level and price will be higher if there is veining, movement and rare minerals in the stone.
4. What is up keep like for natural countertops?
Granite and Marble need to be sealed in order to prevent staining or changes in the color. Countertops should be sealed at the time of installation and every 15 years after. You may purchase sealant at our shop. On the contrary,man-made materials such as Quartz does not need up keep. However, to preserve the beauty of your surfaces we reccommend you do not place hot items or cut directly on the surface. Find more details on the differences between countertops on the Our Products page.
5. what are your hours?
Our hours are Monday through Friday 8am-5pm. Saturdays are by appointment only. Sundays we are closed.
6. Do the surfaces have any kind of warranty?
Natural stone has no warranty. However, Quartz has a limited warranty through their manufacturer. The type of warranty on the quartz will depend on the manufacturer.
7. How long does it take to install countertops?
It may take anywhere from 3-4 weeks to install contertops from the moment you step into the shop. Delays to the process include time to choose countertop type & color and whether there are cabinets or another surface to lay the countertop on.
8. Do I need a designer?
Working with a designer is completely optional. Many clients prefer to work alone in designing their ideal space! Our sales staff are well versed in design and have over 10 years of experience in the remodeling space. We are here to help guide you in any way you may need. At Emerald Pearl we treat you like family. However, we work with a series of interior designers if you decide you need or want some extra help!
9. Can you place a hot pot on your surface?
We do not recommend placing hot pots on any stone. Heat may change your stone’s color or even stain it. Have your manufacturer make you a trivet instead. A trivet a piece of countertop that is used to place hot object. We do not recommend using it as a cutting board as it may dull your knives.
10. What do I do if my countertops have a scratch?
If your natural countertops are scratched, one of our many artisans may be able to repair the scratch. It normally takes a trained professional to fix scratches. We recommend not cutting directly on surfaces and sealing natural stone every 15 years.
11. Which surface is best for outside and fireplaces?
Natural stone is the best option for outside spaces and fireplaces. Natural stone expands and compresses with heat making it durable. Man-made materials will remain rigid making them susceptible to cracking under heat.
12. What is the whitest granite?
There is no pure white granite, however, one of the whitest granite is Colonial White. If you prefer whiter colors consider man-made surfaces such as porcelain, quartz or some marbles.
13. Is there any granite that looks like marble?
No, marble has a look that no other natural stone mimics. However, man-made surfaces like porcelain and quartz come close.
14. Where do most granite and marble come from?
Most natural stone comes from quarries found in Brazil, Italy and India.