GRANITE SAMPLES / VIEWING GRANITE SLABS

  Viewing samples of granite is very different then viewing samples of quartz. Since quartz manufacturers have not been able to quite emulate the same "veining" look that granite it known for, (Cambria has been successful to coming close with seveal of their new colors), veiwing a small piece of granite is not going to give you the true picture of what your stone will look like. Although there are some granites that are a more "what you see if what you get look", (Blue Pearl, Absolute Black, or Black Galaxy are several colors that fall under this look), most are drawn to granite because of the random-ness of the coloring and veining. For this reason it is important to not only view slabs of the granite to decide what you like, but to also remember that even thought various stores may carry slabs of granite that carry the same name, anything with veining may vary in color and pattern depending on where is is from, even varying from pallet to pallet as slabs are mined from another area of the quarry. This is important as customers have found that something they chose months before at a store may not look the same when they go back to the same store later.
  In addition, remember that when you ask for a sample of granite, (or even quartz on occasion), the small piece you take home is going to look different as you are looking at a very small piece out of a very large slab. If this happens don't panic - if you found a slab that goes well with your cabinetry, paint, flooring, etc., then go with it. Don't second guess your self because things don't match that very small piece you took home. If you need to, go back and view the full slab. Once you have reassured yourself you picked out the color that truly works for you, be confident in your choice. And don't let well meaning friends or family sway your choice - but that is a whole other topic!! http://www.monarch-designs.com/