Composition
Granite is an igneous rock made mainly of quartz, feldspar and mica that crystallised slowly from molten magma.
Marble is a metamorphic rock made of recrystallised calcite, formed when limestone was transformed by heat and pressure.
Quarry Locations
Pakistan has both. Granite outcrops occur in areas such as Nagarparkar in Sindh and the northern mountains, while FB Marble also imports granite from India, Brazil, Norway, Finland and Ukraine. Marble is quarried extensively in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — districts such as Buner and Mohmand — and in Balochistan, home of Ziarat White.
Hardness
Granite rates about 6–7 on the Mohs scale. Marble rates about 3. This single difference explains most of their behaviour.
Scratch Resistance
Granite resists knife and utensil scratches. Marble scratches easily from grit, ceramics and steel.
Stain Resistance
Granite has low porosity, especially dark varieties, and resists stains when sealed. Marble is more porous and needs sealing every 6–12 months on counters.
Acid Resistance
Granite does not react with lemon, vinegar or tomatoes. Marble etches, leaving dull marks.
Chip Resistance
Both can chip at sharp edges, but softer marble chips more often.
Heat Resistance
Both handle heat well. Granite is better for direct contact with hot pots.
Appearance
Granite shows speckles, crystals and sometimes waves. Marble shows smooth veining, soft clouds and a slight translucence that many people find more elegant.
Cost
Both have economical local options. In FB Marble's list, Pakistani granite starts at about Rs 250 per sq ft. Local marbles for flooring are also very affordable, while imported marble and exotic granite sit at the premium end.
Maintenance Summary
| Property | Granite | Marble |
|---|---|---|
| Sealing | Light colours yearly | Every 6–12 months |
| Etching | No | Yes |
| Scratches | Rare | Common |
| Heat | Excellent | Good |
Where to Use Each
Use granite for kitchen counters, stairs, entrances, car porches and outdoor areas. Use marble for lounge and bedroom floors, bathroom walls, feature walls, vanities and decorative tables.
Talk to FB Marble
FB Marble & Granite has supplied and installed natural stone across Pakistan since 2001. Visit our showroom at 51 Y Jamun, Bedian Road, near the DHA Phase 5-6 Interchange, Lahore, or WhatsApp +92 323 4148908 with your measurements for a free quote. Browse our granite, marble, quartz, porcelain and onyx collections on fbmarble.com.
