As you explore options for your new kitchen countertops, upcoming bathroom renovation, or next exterior project, you’ll come across various types of natural stones — including some that are categorized as “exotic.” With striking presence and unmatched beauty, exotic materials are anything but a fad. They’re a premier feature of high-end design and architecture.
Exotic Stones: A Mesmerizing Makeup
Stones are marvels in and of themselves. After all, they’re the final product of nature hundreds, perhaps thousands of years in the making. Putting the process and beauty into a few words is no easy feat, but when talking about what makes exotic stones unique, it all comes down to the composition.
Class and Composition
Natural materials tend to be formed by the same minerals in the same quantities. For example, marble is always formed by limestone, while granite is always composed of feldspar and quartz.
That’s what makes those stones breathtaking compositions. Exotic material, however, is formed when a process goes differently than expected, resulting in a markedly distinct formation.
The difference can lie in composition (as varying mineral levels can lead to extreme changes), climatic conditions, and even natural geological conditions, such as earthquakes, soil movements, and volcanic activity. The primary selling point of this type of material is that it won’t exist again within a certain period, as it won’t really ever exist again. When we say an exotic slab is like no other, we really mean it; the “exotic” label means a block has been cut, and you’re getting the only slab.
Patterns Galore
The true essence of exotic slabs lies within working with different colors, veining, and an unforgettable visual pattern. The colors of these materials vary drastically, as they are true works of art from Mother Nature herself. From black, blues, and greens, to more vibrant options showcasing silver, orange, and gold, shades, exotic stones are not bound by a limited palette.
Exotic Marble
Exotic marble is based on composition, with different limestone levels that can transform it into a more resistant or porous rock. Typically, they end up skewing more resistant and showcase unbelievable colors. However, exotic marble requires some care and cleaning when maintaining it to preserve the impeccable, luxurious look any environment benefits from with this type of stone.
Exotic Granite
Unlike marble, exotic granite has circulated the world of architecture and design for quite some time. Considered to be stone with high resistance and lower investment value, exotic granite is among the top of the stone business. Unlike other natural stones, it can be applied to nearly any internal or external area without fear, as it won’t change over time or with liquids. While the color options are comparatively limited when it comes to granite, exotic slabs can pack a surprising punch. The most commonly found shades are variations of black and white, green, blue, yellow, orange, and even red.
Exotic Slabs: Make a Statement in Your Space
In addition to kitchen and bathroom countertops, exotic natural stone can effortlessly add a touch of luxury to other areas, such as a bar or furniture tops. Some of these stones sport silver or gold flecks, with many coming in deep, bold colors never found in traditional stone and showing off dazzling patterns worthy of a gallery.