Green Marble is a serpentine-containing rock that has recrystallized into a compact form of metamorphosed limestone. Green coloration is often due to serpentine resulting from originally magnesium-rich limestone or dolomite with silica impurities The beautiful bands of rich green color within the marble are formed by tiny crystals of green minerals like serpentine, diopside, chlorite. The Indian green marble is sturdy, mature, and highly compact material, compared to other green stones found elsewhere, it is stronger and more rigid.

Physical Properties 1) Hardness on Moh's Scale: 3-- 4 2) Water Absorption% by weight: 0.07 ASTM-Indian Standard C-97 3) Density Bulk Specific gravityc-97: 2.66 4) Modulus of Rupture (Dry) 42 N/mm2 5) Modulus of Rupture (wet): 35 N/mm2ASTM C-99 6) Compressive strength (Dry): 286 N/mm2ASTM 170 7) Compressive strength (Wet) : 194 N/mm2ASTM C-170 8) Abrasion Resistance to wear : 1.1 Avg wear (mm)IS-1237 9) Abrasion Resisitance to wear : 1.2 Mxm Wear (mm)IS-1237 10) Flexural Strength: 35 N/mm2 ( IS-4860 Guidelines) 11) Weather impact: Resistant Chemical Properties: 1) CaO: 18.56 2) MgO: 21.29 3) SiO2: 31.51 4) Fe2O3: 5.33 5) Al2O3: 1.49 6) LoI: 21.82

Granite rocks are igneous rocks, formed by slowly cooling pockets of magma that were trapped beneath the earth's surface. Physically, commercial granites are hard, compact rocks with fine to coarse grains of metamorphic or igneous origin. Classification Granite is a common name for all Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks commercially, but geologically “Granite” is a term only for acidic, plutonic Igneous Rock. They can be classified based on Geological and Commercial Value, broadly into three groups. Genesis - A medium/fine-grained rock of Gneissic structure is available in various colors. Plagioclase, microcline and quartz are the vital minerals, while titanite, biotite, apatite, epidote, zircon and garnet are found in lesser quantities. Small amount of hematite, pyroxene and sericite are also present in this rock, which is of a granitic composition, contains numerous crystallites. Gneisses can be recognized by the wavy patterns or zig zag movements. Others in this category are Paradiso, Viscon White, Red Multi Color, Tiger Skin Colombo Juprana, Imperial White, etc Porphyry- Some individual crystals known as phenocrysts are bigger than the ground mass, in such cases the texture is known as porphyritic and the granite is called as porphyry. Porphyries are granites which have dominant Feldspar Crystal or Flowers. Chatarpur red, Platinum White, Crystal Yellow, Steel Grey, belong to this class. Dyke- Dykes are the Black Granites, which commonly occurs as Dolerite Dykes. The Black Granites which form a Ring Dyke is a classic example of the Dyke. Other Black Granites or Dykes include Absolute Black . Granite is classified on the basis of the QAPF diagram for coarse grained plutonic rocks (granitoids). They are named according to the percentage of quartz, alkali feldspar (orthoclase, sanidine, or microcline) and plagioclase feldspar on the A-Q-P half of the diagram. A pure granite according to modern petrologic convention consists of both plagioclase and alkali feldspars. When a granite is devoid or nearly bereft of plagioclase, it is referred to as alkali granite. When a granitoid contains <10% of orthoclase it is called tonalite; pyroxene and amphibole are common in tonalite. A granite which contains both muscovite and biotite micas is known as binary or two-mica granite. These granites typically have high quantities of potassium and are low in plagioclase. They are usually S or A-type granites. The volcanic equivalent of plutonic granite is rhyolite. Granite has poor primary permeability but strong secondary permeability. Application Granite is widely used as a dimension stone in the form of Slabs, tiles in commercial buildings, monuments as well as private houses. Owing to its strength, it is also used as foundations for homes in various countries. With an increase in the number of acid rain in many parts of the world, this rock has begun to supplant marble as a monument material. Refined or polished granite is also a popular choice for kitchen counter tops due to its requirement of low maintenance and aesthetic properties. Thick Granite Slabs and Tiles also finds application for gravestones, memorials and other artifacts. Engineers generally use polished granite surfaces to establish a plane of reference, as they are relatively impervious and inflexible.

In terms of properties granite is a unique material. The properties lending uniqueness to granite are: Physical Properties Hardness- 6 to 7 on Moh's Scale Density- 2.6 to 2.8 Kg/cm3 Compressive Strength- 140 to 210 N/mm2 Modulus of Rupture- 15 to 25 N/mm2 Water Absorption- 0.1-0.6% Average Wear - Less then 1% Porosity- Quite low Weather Impact- Resistant Chemical Composition The chemical composition of granite, by weight percent: SiO2-72.04% (70-75%) Al2O3- 14.42% (10-15%) K2O-4.12% (4-6%) Na2O -3.69% CaO -1.82% (0.5 - 2%) FeO-1.68% (1.5 - 3%) Fe2O3-1.22% (1 - 2%) MgO -0.71% (0.5 - 2%) TiO2-0.30% (0.2-0.5%) P2O5-0.12% MnO-0.05% The other Properties of Granites are: Porosity/permeability This hard rock has almost negligible porosity ranging between 0.2 to 4%. Thermal Stability Granite is highly thermal stability and is impervious to weathering from temperature. Even air borne chemicals have no effect on it. It is highly resistant to chemical erosion making granite useful for making tanks to store highly caustic material. Co-efficient of expansion The co-efficient of expansion for granite varies from 4.7x10-6 – 9.0x10-6(inch x inch). Variegation Granite has high consistency in color and texture. Hardness Hardness of granite lends it excellent wear, making it excellent building stone.

Granite Is Exceptionally Durable Granite’s exceptional durability makes it an excellent option. Durability is one of the reasons that people choose granite countertops. With granite, you don’t have to worry about damaging the countertop with knives or cookware. The same durability makes granite flooring tiles useful. We’ve seen granite tiles outlast tiles made from other popular materials. If you want longevity, then granite is a good choice for your home or office. Granite Makes a Great Option for Wet Areas People often choose tile for the wet areas in their homes. With granite tile, you don’t have to worry about moisture damaging your subfloor. Granite tile creates a surface that’s practically impenetrable to liquids. Even standing liquid won’t harm your floor. Of course, it’s always a good idea to wipe up standing liquids to prevent slips and falls. A polished granite surface can get quite slippery when wet. Granite Is a Hypoallergenic Flooring Option Does someone in your family have allergies or asthma? Granite flooring could reduce their symptoms. As long as you clean your granite flooring regularly, you can reduce the amount of allergens present in your home. The positive effects can actually do much more than reduce the number of times that you have a runny nose or scratchy throat. The EPA identifies poor indoor air quality as a serious health concern. The long-term effects of living in a home with poor indoor air quality include increased risks of cancer, respiratory diseases, and heart problems. We recommend sweeping your granite flooring every day to remove pet dander, dust, dirt, and other common allergens. You can make your granite floors even more beneficial by mopping them about once per week if not possible every day. Granite Comes in Many Styles Customers often want tile flooring that matches their homes’ existing décor. That means choosing tiles that come in specific colors and styles. Granite comes in a wide range of colors and patterns because it’s made during natural volcanic processes that include a variety of minerals and temperatures. The most common colors include white, black, beige, brown, blue, and red and many more with different tints, shades and patterns. Having access to so many types of granite flooring and granite countertops gives you the opportunity to choose an option that matches your taste preferences and existing décor. Resistance to Water and Moisture Once properly fitted/ fixed, granite is extremely resistant to water and moisture. Value for money While granite is by no means cheap to install with respect to installation of tiles, the value it adds to your home / commercial spaces is instant. Any costs outlaid will come back.

Physical Properties: 1) Hardness on Moh's Scale: 3-4 2) Water Absorption% by weight: 0.06 ASTM-Indian Standard C-97 3) Density Bulk Specific gravityc-97: 2.5-2.65 4) Modulus of Rupture (Dry)N/mm2: 36 5) Modulus of Rupture (wet)N/mm2ASTM C-99: 30 6) Compressive strength (Dry)N/mm2ASTM 170: 180 7) Compressive strength (Wet)N/mm2ASTM C-170: 210 8) Abrasion Resistance to wear Avg wear (mm)IS-1237: 2.45 9) Abrasion Resistance to wear Mxm Wear (mm)IS-1237: 2.6 10) Flexural Strength N/mm2 ( IS-4860 Guidelines): 12.8 11) Weather impact: Resistant Chemical Properties: 1) CaO : 31-33 2) MgO : 18-27 3) SiO2 : 0.01-7.6 4) Fe2O3: 0.12-0.95 5) Al2O3 : 2-5 6) LoI 36-44

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of fine grains bonded by siliceous or calcareous minerals. Sandstones are very compact, hard and tough material and consist of consolidated masses of sand deposited by moving water or by wind. Indian Sandstones are available in fascinating colours and patterns, which largely depends upon the bonding of material. Some of the natural sandstone has a homogeneous and soft structure that they are capable of receiving most elaborate carving and filigree work

Physical Properties: Water absorption, % by weight ASTM C-97: 6.29 Density (Bulk specific gravity) ASTM C-97: 2.07 Modulus of rupture Dry, N/ mm2 ASTM C-99: 8 Modulus of rupture Wet, N/ mm2 ASTM C-99: 8 Compressive Strength dry N/ mm2 C-170: 41 Compressive Strength wet N/ mm2 C-170: 31

Limestone consists primarily of calcium carbonate, but it may also contain variable amounts of impurities such as clay, silt, and organic material. The presence of impurities can affect its color and texture. Formation of Limestone occurs in marine environments where the accumulation of calcium carbonate-rich organic debris, including shells and Coral is prevalent. Over time, these materials compress and harden, forming limestone deposits. There are various types of limestone, each with its unique characteristics. Some common varieties include chalk, marl, travertine, and tufa, which differ in terms of texture, origin, and usage.

Physical Properties: Hardness: 2- 4 on moh’s Scale Density : 2.5 to 2.7 kg/cm3 Compressive Strength: 60-170 N/mm2 Water Absorption: Less than 1% Porosity: 2.6- 20% Moisture Expansion: 0.0028 % Weather Impact : Resistant Chemical Properties Lime (CaO) : 38-42% Silica (SiO2) : 15-18 % Alumina (Al2O3) : 3-5 % Magenesium Oxide (MgO) : 0.5 – 3% FeO+Fe2O3 : 1-1.5 % Alkalies : 1-1.5% Loss of Ignition (LoI) : 30-32 % Mechanical properties Abrasive Hardness : 2.0 - 24 Tensile Strength, Ultimate: 5.00 - 25.0 MPa Modulus of Elasticity: 10.0 - 80.0 GPa Modulus of Rupture: 0.00340 - 0.0359 GPa Transverse Strength: 3.00 - 36.0 MPa Compressive Strength: 13.8 - 255 MPa Impact Toughness: 1.97 - 3.39 cm/cm²

Marble is a rock resulting from metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, most commonly limestone or dolomite. Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The resulting marble rock is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals. Primary sedimentary textures and structures of the original carbonate rock (protolith) have typically been modified or destroyed. Pure white marble is the result of metamorphism of a very pure (silicate-poor) limestone or dolomite protolith. The characteristic swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties are usually due to various mineral impurities such as clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone. Green coloration is often due to serpentine resulting from originally magnesium-rich limestone or dolomite with silica impurities. These various impurities have been mobilized and recrystallized by the intense pressure and heat of the metamorphism

Physical Properties: 1) Hardness on Moh's Scale: 3-4 2) Water Absorption% by weight: 0.04 ASTM-Indian Standard C-97 3) Density Bulk Specific gravityc-97: 2.84 4) Modulus of Rupture (Dry)N/mm2: 12 5) Modulus of Rupture (wet)N/mm2ASTM C-99: 13 6) Compressive strength (Dry)N/mm2ASTM 170: 111 7) Compressive strength (Wet)N/mm2ASTM C-170: 80 8) Abrasion Resistance to wear Avg wear (mm)IS-1237: 3.1 9) Abrasion Resistance to wear Mxm Wear (mm)IS-1237: 3.2 10) Flexural Strength N/mm2 ( IS-4860 Guidelines): 12.6 11) Weather impact: Resistant Chemical Properties: 1) CaO : 35-39 2) MgO : 16-25 3) SiO2 : 1.2-7.6 4) Fe2O3: 0.19-1.95 5) Al2O3 : 2-5 6) LoI 30-35

Basalt is a fined grained igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava. It is composed mostly of minerals such as pyroxene, plagioclase feldspar, and sometimes olivine. Basalt is composed mostly of oxides of silicon, iron, magnesium, potassium, aluminum, titanium, calcium and low in silica. Basalt is known for its dark color, typically ranging from black to dark grey, Basalt has a number of unique properties that make it useful for various applications. For example, it is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to wear and erosion, making it ideal for buildings and construction materials. Basalt is also used for manufacturing fiber reinforcement materials, known as basalt fiber, which are used in a wide range of applications including automotive parts, aerospace components, and sporting goods.

Physical Properties: 1) Hardness on Moh's Scale: 3-4 2) Water Absorption% by weight: 0.06 ASTM-Indian Standard C-97 3) Density Bulk Specific gravityc-97: 2.5-2.65 4) Modulus of Rupture (Dry)N/mm2: 36 5) Modulus of Rupture (wet)N/mm2ASTM C-99: 30 6) Compressive strength (Dry)N/mm2ASTM 170: 180 7) Compressive strength (Wet)N/mm2ASTM C-170: 210 8) Abrasion Resistance to wear Avg wear (mm)IS-1237: 2.45 9) Abrasion Resistance to wear Mxm Wear (mm)IS-1237: 2.6 10) Flexural Strength N/mm2 ( IS-4860 Guidelines): 12.8 11) Weather impact: Resistant Chemical Properties: 1) CaO : 20.79 2) MgO : 22.21 3) SiO2 : 14.35 4) Fe2O3: 8.28 5) Al2O3 : 3-9 6) LoI: 24

Physical Properties: 1) Hardness on Moh's Scale: 3-4 2) Water Absorption% by weight: 2.38-2.43 ASTM-Indian Standard C-97 3) Density Bulk Specific gravityc-97: 2.55-2.67 4) Modulus of Rupture (Dry)N/mm2: 19-24 5) Modulus of Rupture (wet)N/mm2ASTM C-99: 13-20 6) Compressive strength (Dry)N/mm2ASTM 170: 138-114 7) Compressive strength (Wet)N/mm2ASTM C-170: 83-81 8) Abrasion Resistance to wear Avg wear (mm)IS-1237: 1.45 9) Abrasion Resistance to wear Mxm Wear (mm)IS-1237: 1.6 10) Flexural Strength N/mm2 ( IS-4860 Guidelines): 12.20 11) Weather impact: Resistant Chemical Properties: 1) CaO : 31-33 2) MgO : 18-27 3) SiO2 : 0.01-7.6 4) Fe2O3: 0.12-0.95 5) Al2O3 : 2-5 6) LoI 36-44

Granite is a natural stone, an igneous rock, formed from cooled lava and magma and hence is rich in mineral content. Regarded as the queen of stone flooring, a few of the minerals include silica, quartz, feldspar and mica and amphibole minerals. They are available in gray, pink and white colours. It is widely used in malls, office spaces, kitchens, hallways and even semi-outdoor spaces specially courtyards and home gardens. Advantages Of Granite Flooring: Robust; hardest of natural stones Durable: Can last a lifetime Available in a variety of colors and patterns Resistance to scratching Durability to acid and rough usage High resistance to stains and burns. Bacteria resistant Easy to clean Perfect alternative for warmer places as the stone feels cold underfoot. Disadvantages Of Granite Flooring: little bit Heavy in weight in comparison to ceramic tiles. Doesn’t have the warmth of wood, Its installation charges are little bit high Should be properly sealed to become water resistant. flooring cannot be used immediately after installation.

Marble is a metamorphic stone, formed under intense heat and pressure that ultimately transforms the rock composition. It is a soft rock, with a porous nature. For flooring purposes, it is mostly used in the living rooms, bedrooms and lobby. Suitable for almost any space of your house that you wish must be eye-pleasing and well-maintained; they are also a really good choice for living rooms and foyers. Marbles are an elegant preference and score high on aesthetics. Advantages Of Marble Flooring: Durable Can last for ages. The design patterns available are exquisite and are one of the most elegant flooring styles. Easy to clean Provides a good indoor air quality as it does not catch allergens. Have the advantage of a wide range of colous Most of the Italian marble slabs are resin impregnated which provides a more hygienic surface than other material Disadvantages Of Marble Flooring: If not cared for with diligence, the marble surface may get scratches, leading to its deterioration. Requires regular maintenance / polishing to retain its beauty. If uncoated, the flooring may get stains easily. Feel cold underfoot. good quality marble is expensive. cost of flooring is little bit expensive than tiles. Flooring cannot be used immediately after installation.

Vitrified Tile It is a man-made ceramic tile, with low porosity, mostly used indoors and outdoors. Vitrified tiles are differentiated in three major types: Double charge, Full body and Glazed. Advantages Of Vitrified Tile Flooring: Resistance to water and frost Easy availability in shops in huge quantities. Available in varied sizes, shapes and patterns. Homogeny in size, hue and depth Great strength Vitreous facade, thus creating a single hard mass. The setting course is very simple and easy. Can be used within 48 hours of laying Prevent growth of bacteria and fungi due to moisture resistance Easy to clean Sunlight doesn’t cause them to fade. Vitrified tiles are in common use nowadays due to their custom decor and sleek finish. Disadvantages Of Vitrified Tile Flooring: Need to be taken care of to prevent flaking Are a bit expensive as compared to the other floor boards. Need high quality adhesives for laying which only increases expense If one tile develops a defect / crack, it must be cut away along the grout lines. This might damage the adjacent material /tiles . Are slippery when wet These tiles could be used in any part of your house and there will be no compromise on aesthetics. Vitrified tiles can be lent a highly polished finish, though too much polishing would not be a very safe option, especially for kids and for the aged.

5 REASONS TO PICK GRANITE INSTEAD OF CERAMIC TILE The importance of choosing the right construction materials for flooring and counter surfaces boils down to more than just looks. Over the last few years, laminate materials have been heavily marketed to homeowners due to their modern engineering, lower cost, and ease of installation, but ceramic and granite are two materials that have proven to retain their relevance and superiority over laminate tiles. For most homeowners, granite will make more sense than ceramic for their countertops and floors, and here are five reasons granite will often emerge as the better choice. 1. The All-Natural Look To some extent, both ceramic and granite can be considered to come from natural sources. However, there is far more engineering of synthetic substances involved in the manufacturing of modern ceramic tiles. The production of ceramic tile is similar to engineered granite in the sense that natural materials are still part of the process. Nonetheless, interior decorators will tell you the most natural look will always be granite extracted from quarries and cut into slabs or tiles. 2. Historical Appeal The architects and builders of ancient structures such as the Egyptian pyramids preferred the look and durability of natural stone. The first use of ceramic tiles as a construction material took place thousands of years after the pyramids, but the earliest stone tiles have been found in Tunisian mosques dating back to the 9th century. 3. Durability The molecular density of granite makes it one of the hardest natural stones in use today. Although ceramic can be molded to make bulletproof surfaces, this specialized use is not typical in the residential construction industry. Homeowners who want their floors and countertops to last should choose granite. 4. Simple Maintenance Ease of maintenance has been a major selling point of glazed ceramic tiles. However, the same can be said about granite these days. The porosity of metamorphic stones such as granite used to be a concern for homeowners, but the reality of modern granite slabs and tiles is that they can be finished and coated with a strong seal that is easy to clean and can also be frequently resealed with a stone-safe spray-and-wipe granite sealer. In other words, homeowners can safely choose granite knowing they will be able to maintain it themselves without having to hire professionals to clean and reseal their floors and counters. 5. High Home Value Granite has been an interior decoration trend for nearly three decades. Homebuyers are known to actively look for properties that feature granite installations, particularly kitchen counters. As long as this residential construction trend continues, homes with granite surfaces will boast higher values than those that feature ceramic tiles. Having been used throughout history as a famously high end and luxurious building material, adorning everything from the Taj Mahal, to the ancient Egyptian pyramids and ubiquitous carved columns in…

So here we have before you the merits and demerits associated with each of the three options you are confused between – and we bet this must have helped you. When it comes to selecting the most suitable flooring material for your home interiors go for something that suits functionality, cost, required quality of aesthetics and texture. That’s it – and you are good to go!