Category Archives: Marble

Marble Countertops & The Baking Connection

Posted by ExquisiteStone on November 19, 2024

When you think of a classic kitchen, what comes to mind? Perhaps the warm glow of sunlight streaming through a window, the rich aroma of freshly baked goods, and, prominently, the elegant surface of a marble countertop. Marble has not only been a favored choice for countertops due to its aesthetic appeal but has also played a pivotal role in the world of baking for centuries. Let’s explore the fascinating history of marble countertops and their enduring connection to the art of baking.

Bakers have long revered marble for its functional qualities. Its smooth surface is ideal for rolling out dough, and its thermal properties help maintain consistent temperatures. This is particularly important for delicate pastries like puff pastry or croissants, where the incorporation of butter must be managed carefully to achieve the perfect flaky texture.

In addition to functionality, marble also provides a certain level of elegance to the kitchen. The rich veins and varied colors of marble add an artistic touch, transforming a baking space into a chef’s haven. Iconic figures in baking, from Marie Antoinette’s chefs to modern pastry artists, have embraced marble, making it a symbol of culinary excellence.

To keep your marble in pristine condition, a few simple steps can make all the difference. Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches, and clean spills promptly to avoid staining. For deep cleans, a gentle pH-neutral cleaner works wonders. Regular sealing will help protect the surface, allowing you to bake without worry.

Are you a baker and ready to roll out your dough on a new marble countertop? Contact Exquisite Stone today for options and pricing!

chasing the perfect waterfall

Posted by ExquisiteStone on October 25, 2024

It’s important not to run around a waterfall – especially in your kitchen! The mitered waterfall panel has been growing in popularity these days. This is an absolutely stunning way to feature the movement in your natural stone or quartz, and adds a healthy dose of drama to your space. Interested in some more information about adding a waterfall panel to your countertop project? Let us know! Walk-don’t-run to the Exquisite Stone showroom for a free estimate today!

Ancient Homeowners Also Wanted Stone Countertops

Posted by ExquisiteStone on May 14, 2024

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, is renowned for its extraordinary preservation of daily life, art, and architecture. Among the well-preserved features are the splendid natural stone countertops that adorned the homes of Pompeii’s prosperous citizens. These countertops, crafted from materials like marble and granite, serve as a testament to the enduring allure and functionality of natural stone in interior design.

Pompeii Marketplace

The ancient Romans were masters of engineering and design, and their choices in materials were a testament to their sophistication. Natural stone countertops were highly favored in Pompeii for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Grandeur: Natural stone countertops in Pompeii were often crafted from marbles like Carrara, which boasted exquisite veining patterns and a luminous surface. These countertops added a touch of opulence to the homes and reflected the social status of their owners.

2. Durability: The eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried Pompeii for centuries, and yet the natural stone countertops remained remarkably intact. This enduring quality testifies to the robust nature of these materials, which can withstand the test of time and the rigors of daily life.

3. Hygienic Properties: Natural stone easier to clean and maintain than other materials available at the time, making it an ideal choice for countertops. In an era where hygiene was of utmost importance, natural stone surfaces contributed to a healthier living environment.

Marble Installation at Pompeii

Natural stone countertops have a long history throughout the world, and our own modern selection choices are made with the same priorities as ancient peoples.  The durability, aesthetic features, and timeless elegance of natural stone endures through time all the way from 79 AD to today. 

Contact Exquisite Stone today for timeless countertop options!

You Have Natural Stone Countertops, Now You Should Seal Them

Posted by ExquisiteStone on March 19, 2024

Natural stone countertops such as granite, marble and quartzite are porous materials, meaning they have tiny openings and capillaries that can absorb liquids. Sealing is an essential protective measure to prevent damage due to daily wear-n-tear.

It sounds like an inconvenience, but treating natural stone with a penetrating sealer creates a protective layer that repels liquids, preventing substances like red wine, oils, and acidic foods from penetrating the stone and causing stains.

Steps to Properly Seal Natural Stone Countertops

1. CLEAN THOROUGHLY:  Before sealing, ensure your countertops are clean and free of any stains, dirt, or debris. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner for the best results.

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEALER:  Select a sealer based on the type of natural stone you have. Check out recommendations from Exquisite Stone here.

3. VENTILATE:  Adequate ventilation is essential when applying sealers to minimize exposure to fumes. Open windows and doors or use fans if necessary.

4. APPLY SEALER:  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealer. Typically, this involves evenly applying the sealer in small sections and allowing it to penetrate the stone for the specified time.

5. BUFF & REMOVE EXCESS:  After the sealer has had time to penetrate, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels to remove any excess sealer from the surface.

6. CURE:  Give the sealer ample time to cure and create a protective barrier. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, so be patient.

7. MAINTAIN:  Reapply the sealer as needed.  Exquisite Stone recommends every 3 to 5 years for most materials but please contact the sales team with any questions.

Sealing natural stone countertops is a vital part of preserving their beauty and longevity. By taking the time to follow proper sealing procedures, you can ensure that your countertops remain a stunning focal point in your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. A little maintenance now will go a long way in protecting your investment and maintaining the timeless elegance of your natural stone countertops.  Contact Exquisite Stone for information about sealers and helpful tips.