1. Igneous Stone
How it forms: from molten rock (magma or lava) that cools and solidifies.
Examples: granite, gabbro (often sold as black granite), basalt.
Properties:
- Very hard and dense
- Excellent heat resistance
- Low porosity
- Visible crystals
Best uses: kitchen counters, stairs, entrance floors, outdoor paving, car porches, monuments.
At FB Marble: more than 45 granites, from Galaxy Black to Blue Pearl.
2. Sedimentary Stone
How it forms: layers of sediment, shells, organic matter or chemical deposits compacted and cemented over time.
Examples: limestone, travertine, sandstone, onyx (a chemical deposit).
Properties:
- Softer and more porous
- Often layered or with natural holes
- Warm, earthy appearance
- Reacts to acids (limestone and travertine)
Best uses: floors, walls, bathrooms, façades, decorative features.
At FB Marble: 27 travertine designs and Pakistani green onyx.
3. Metamorphic Stone
How it forms: existing rocks transformed by heat, pressure and mineral fluids deep underground.
Examples: marble (from limestone), quartzite (from sandstone), slate (from shale).
Properties:
- Marble: elegant veining, soft, etches
- Quartzite: very hard, marble-like
- Slate: layered, matte
Best uses: marble for floors, walls and vanities; quartzite for kitchens; slate for paving and roofing.
At FB Marble: 19 marble types including Ziarat White, Badal and Sunny Grey.
Quick Comparison
| Type | Example | Hardness | Porosity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Igneous | Granite | High | Low | Kitchens, outdoors |
| Sedimentary | Travertine | Low | High | Floors, walls |
| Metamorphic | Marble | Low | Moderate | Floors, vanities |
| Metamorphic | Quartzite | Very high | Low | Kitchens |
What About Quartz?
Engineered quartz is not a natural stone type — it is manufactured from crushed natural quartz and resin.
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.
