What is the difference between cheap and expensive granite?

Author: Dr. Alejandrin Rosenbaum  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Lower-grade granite may have more natural flaws, color inconsistencies, and simpler patterns, which can make it less expensive. High-grade granite is often more visually appealing and durable, justifying the higher cost.

Why is some granite cheaper than others?

Factors Influencing the Price of Granite

High-quality granite, characterized by its uniformity in color and lack of cracks or blemishes, is typically more expensive. Rarity is another crucial factor. Some granite types are more abundant, while others, due to their unique colors and patterns, are less commonly found.

How can you tell cheap granite?

In contrast, cheaper granite tends to have more uniform patterns and simpler colors, such as black or gray, which are more commonly available. Granite with minimal veining or speckling, like Absolute Black or Baltic Brown, is often more affordable because it is more common and less labor-intensive to extract.

What is the lowest quality granite?

Level 1 granites are considered to be of the lowest quality. Here are the characteristics that best describe level 1 granite. Often referred to as "builder" or "commercial" grade. Features simpler color patterns and may have a higher concentration of softer minerals.

What is the difference between the levels of granite?

A granite's “grade” refers to the structural quality of the stone. Three levels of granite exist: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3+. Level 1 is “low-grade” granite, while Level 3+ is “high-grade”. A dealer looks at several identifiers when assigning a granite grade to a slab of granite.

Quartz or Granite - Which is the BETTER Countertop?

What is the cheapest grade of granite?

Level 1 (Entry-Level/Commercial Grade): This is the most basic grade of granite, often pre-fabricated and sourced from China. It's commonly used in apartments and remodeled homes due to its affordability. However, it has a very plain design and irregular patterns.

What is the highest quality of granite?

Top 10 High-Quality Granite Colors
  • Tan Brown Granite. Tan Brown, with its warm and earthy tones, originates from the quarries of Southern India. ...
  • Kashmir White Granite. ...
  • Black Galaxy Granite. ...
  • Moon White Granite. ...
  • Steel Grey Granite. ...
  • Blue Pearl Granite. ...
  • Alaska White Granite. ...
  • Imperial Red Granite.

How to check the quality of granite?

Perform a thorough visual inspection of the granite slab. Look for any blemishes such as cracks, chips, discolorations, scratches, and dings. Also, be on the lookout for the uniformity of the surfaces. Check the edges if they are cut straight.

What granite never goes out of style?

White granite countertops are a classic choice that never goes out of style.

Which color granite is the cheapest?

Common colors like black and white may be more affordable, while exotic or rare colors command a higher price. Thickness: Granite is available in different thicknesses, ranging from 2 cm to 3 cm. Thicker slabs are generally pricier due to the additional material required and the enhanced durability they offer.

How much should I budget for granite countertops?

It's important to note for the average home renovation granite countertops will cost between $2,250 and $4,500, and most people are spending $3,250 for their countertops. In terms of square footage, you can expect to spend anywhere between $40 and $100 per square foot on granite counters.

How do I choose good granite?

How To Choose Granite Based On Quality & Grade
  1. Grade 1: Entry level (commercial grade) These are the most common and affordable granites. ...
  2. Grade 2: Mid level. ...
  3. 1/ Go With The Overall Style: ...
  4. 2/ Play With Harmony And Contrast. ...
  5. 3/ Consider Lighting And Texture. ...
  6. 4/ Play With Patterns.

What color granite is more expensive?

What is the most expensive granite? Overall, you will find that the most expensive types of stone are red, purple, and blue granite. Various types of blue granite, like Azul Aran and Blue Bahia granite, are in the high-end of the price range. The most expensive type of granite is Van Gogh granite.

Why is granite losing popularity?

The first reason is simple: some early styles and color palettes associated with granite fell out of fashion. Granite selection and finishes continued to evolve, but it was too late to erase the impression some had of granite as dark and preternaturally polished. Another reason for the granite backlash? Overkill.

Can you put hot pans on granite?

You can put hot pans on granite with no worries if you place something underneath them. A trivet, pad or potholder will absorb the heat from the pan before it reaches the surface, preventing damage to your countertop and preserving its beauty.

Which is better, quartz or granite?

Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn't porous like granite, it's easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.

What color granite is outdated?

Bold, reddish-brown granites were quite popular in the early 2000s, but much like dark green granite, they can make a space feel outdated and overbearing. While red granite certainly stands out, it no longer aligns with the current trend of neutral, calming spaces that emphasize simplicity.

What looks like granite but is less expensive?

While quartz countertop prices are similar to granite, quartz will likely cost less down the line, as it does not require sealing or much regular upkeep. Quartz offers high durability, a non-porous nature, a wide variety of colors and designs, and ease of customization.

Is granite outdated in 2024?

Not entirely. While granite countertops may not be the trendiest option in 2024, they remain a durable and beautiful choice for many homeowners. The key is to integrate them into a modern kitchen design with thoughtful updates and complementary elements.

What does fake granite look like?

Check Out the Color and Pattern

If the color appears same throughout the surface or the pattern repeats exactly, it is manmade. Also, while granite does appear in many colors, grays and browns predominate. Very bright or unusual colors, bold or repeating patterns almost always indicate fake granite.

How do I figure out how much granite I need?

multiply length times width in inches and divide it by 144. Please remember to include the backsplash in your calculation to get an accurate estimate.

Is granite worth the money?

Hygienic: Granite is easy to clean and sanitize, which makes it an excellent option for use in food preparation areas. Unique: No two granite slabs are the same, so you'll have a one-of-a-kind countertop. Value for money: While granite countertops can be expensive, they offer long-lasting value for money.

How can you tell if granite is high quality?

Quality granite can be identified by being about an inch thick, free of cracks and blemishes, having a beautiful pattern, and having low porosity.

How do I choose granite?

Tip Number 1
  1. Your First Granite selection is most likely your best selection.
  2. Go with your instinct and go with the First Granite that impressed you the most.
  3. All that Glitters may not be Your Granite Choice.
  4. The glittery granite that is not granite in the true sense, may not be your ideal choice.

What is considered high end granite?

While Level 3+ granite is the most expensive, it is also the most durable and visually striking, making it an excellent long-term investment for your home.

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