Granite selection guide & How to differentiate “artificially colored” from Natural stone

Granite is one of the most popular choices for homeowners in India when it comes to flooring, stairs, window/door framing, kitchen countertops, wall cladding, or even outdoor use. Its durability, natural beauty, and wide variety of colors make it a smart investment. But when you’re building a house, choosing the right granite becomes tricky—because not all stones that look like granite are actually natural. Some are artificially coated or “converted” to look like premium granite.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through:

  • ✅ How to choose the best granite for your home

  • ✅ Difference between Rajasthan granite and South Indian granite

  • ✅ How to identify natural granite vs artificially colored or “converted” granite


How to Choose Granite for Your Home

When selecting granite, keep these factors in mind:

1. Durability

Granite is extremely strong and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. Real granite feels heavy and dense compared to tiles or marble.

2. Color & Pattern

Granite comes in hundreds of shades and patterns:

  • Light shades (white, beige, pink, grey) → Best for floors, gives a spacious modern look.

  • Dark shades (black, green, red, brown) → Versatile, Ideal for kitchen slabs, stairs, and window/door framing, elegant and easy to maintain.

  • Pattern & veins → Every granite slab is unique. Always check the actual slab before finalizing.

3. Finish Type

  • Polished granite – glossy shine, commonly used for kitchen countertops.

  • Honed / matte granite – soft, non-reflective, good for flooring.

  • Leathered / antique finish – textured, rustic, often used outdoors.

4. Application Area

  • Kitchen countertops → Use hard, dark South Indian granite like Black Galaxy, Absolute Black, Steel Grey.

  • Flooring → Rajasthan granite in lighter shades is budget-friendly and looks spacious.

  • Wall cladding & highlights → Use premium, colorful South Indian granite for luxury effect.


Rajasthan Granite vs South Indian Granite

Both Rajasthan granite (North India) and South Indian granite are popular, but they differ in quality, price, and usage.

Feature Rajasthan Granite South Indian Granite
Color Range Light colors: whites, greys, pinks, browns Dark & bold colors: black, red, green, blue
Hardness & Strength Softer, may lose polish faster Hard, dense, retains polish for decades
Price Budget-friendly, best for flooring Higher price, premium quality
Best Use Flooring, large wall areas Kitchen slabs, facades, luxury interiors

Quick Tip:
👉 Choose Rajasthan granite if you need large floor coverage at an affordable price.
👉 Choose South granite if you want premium, long-lasting countertops and highlights.


How to Identify Natural Granite vs Converted/Artificial Granite

In the market, many stones are sold as granite but are actually coated with chemicals or colors to look like premium granite. These are called “converted stones” and are less durable.

🔎 Tests to Identify Fake Granite:

  1. Color Test – Rub a wet cloth or kerosene on the surface. If the color comes off, it’s dyed.

  2. Edge Check – Compare the polished surface with the sides of the slab. If the edges look different, it’s coated.

  3. Scratch Test – Scratch lightly with a knife or coin. Real granite won’t lose its shine or color.

  4. Heat Test – Place a hot vessel on it. Natural granite remains unaffected; fake coatings may dull.

  5. Crystal Reflection – Natural granite shows crystal-like sparkles under light, unlike artificial coatings.

✅ Natural Granite Features:

  • Uniform grains and natural patterns.

  • Shine comes from machine polishing, not chemical coating.

  • Same color and pattern throughout, even if cut.


Buying Tips for Homeowners

  • Always see the full slab before buying—not just small samples.

  • Buy from a reputed supplier who deals in Rajasthan or South granite.

  • Prefer machine-cut slabs for accurate finishing.

  • Test for natural quality before final purchase.

  • Apply a sealant after installation for extra stain resistance.


Final Thoughts

Granite is a lifetime investment for your home. Choosing the right variety—Rajasthan granite for flooring or South Indian granite for kitchens—will give you the perfect mix of beauty, durability, and value for money. Most importantly, ensure you buy natural granite, not converted stone. A little awareness while purchasing will save you from future headaches and give your home a premium finish for decades.

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