Gran Perla Granite: A Unique Gray and White Spanish Stone

An Overview of Gran Perla Granite

Gran Perla granite is a unique and aesthetically pleasing stone that is growing in popularity for a variety of residential and commercial applications. Often referred to as Valley Pearl granite, this striking material is quarried in Spain and is known for its lovely gray coloration and white flecks throughout that give it a one-of-a-kind appearance.

What is Gran Perla Granite?

Gran Perla granite, sometimes called grigio granito or grey granite, is a type of igneous rock that forms deep below the Earth's surface under extreme heat and pressure. It features a balanced mixture of gray and white minerals including quartz, feldspar, and mica. The interlocking quartz crystals give Gran Perla granite its signature sparkle.

This material gets its name from its visual similarities to pearls, as the white grains scattered across the charcoal gray background are reminiscent of natural pearls. The balance between dark and light minerals results in a more refined look than some other granite materials.

Characteristics of Gran Perla Granite

There are several key characteristics that set Gran Perla granite apart from other natural stone materials on the market:

• Coloration - Featuring an interlocking mix of smoky grays and clean whites. The overall look is balanced and elegant.
• Flecking - Scattered white granite deposits resemble natural pearls, giving this stone its name.
• Density - With a specific gravity of 2.7, Gran Perla granite is an incredibly dense and durable natural stone.
• Hardness - Registering 6-7 on the Mohs mineral hardness scale, suitable for high traffic areas.
• Finishes - Polishes beautifully to a mirror-like sheen or can be tumbled or honed for alternative finishes.

Where Does Gran Perla Granite Come From?

Authentic Gran Perla granite is extracted from a specific quarry located in Novelda, Spain. Here, it is precision-cut into slabs, tiles, and custom sizes to meet global demand. Strict quality control measures are enforced to guarantee color consistency.

Given transportation costs, Gran Perla granite is more expensive than domestic granite from North America. However, many homeowners find the upcharge worthwhile to obtain this rare imported stone with unique European styling.

Gran Perla Granite Applications

Thanks to its resilience and sophisticated appearance, Gran Perla granite works beautifully in kitchen and bathroom spaces that demand sturdy, stylish surfaces. A few popular uses include:

• Kitchen countertops
• Bathroom vanity tops
• Tub and shower enclosures
• Backsplashes
• Outdoor kitchens and pool areas
• Floor tiles
• Fireplace surrounds

Commercial settings like hotels, restaurants, and office buildings can also benefit from incorporating Gran Perla granite. This versatile material brings an upscale vibe through its distinctive gray and white patterning.

Caring for Gran Perla Granite Surfaces

To keep Gran Perla granite surfaces looking like new, minimal maintenance is required. Simply use gentle cleaners without acids or harsh chemicals. Avoid excessive pressure or moisture that could infiltrate open fissures in the stone. Resealing every 1-3 years will optimize protection.

As a high-density stone with top-notch scratch, stain, and heat resistance, Gran Perla granite will retain its like-new sheen for decades to come with proper care.

Obtaining Gran Perla Granite

To purchase Gran Perla granite slabs, tiles, or cut-to-size pieces, contact a reputable importer like Valley Pearl Granite. Keep in mind that supply can be constrained at times given the singularity of this quarry.

Expect prices to align with other premium imported granites from Europe. Bulk discounts may apply to high volume orders. Be sure to inspect all materials thoroughly before finalizing projects to guarantee color consistency and quality.

Valley Pearl Granite stands ready to help residential and commercial clients unlock the potential of this sophisticated Spanish granite. Browse our extensive online catalog today to find the right Gran Perla granite solutions to elevate your next construction or remodeling project.

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FAQs

What finish options are available with Gran Perla granite?

Gran Perla granite can be finished in a variety of ways to achieve different aesthetic looks. The most popular finish is a high polish, which accentuates the stone's glossy surface and resembles a mirror when light reflects. Other options include honed, leathered, brushed, flamed, and waterjet finishes.

Does Gran Perla granite need to be sealed?

Yes, it is highly recommended to seal Gran Perla granite every 1-3 years to prevent staining or etching of the surface. Sealing fills the microscopic pores with a water-resistant resin. Be sure to use a sealant specifically designed for granite rather than a generic stone sealant.

Is Gran Perla good for outdoor use?

With proper sealing, Gran Perla can withstand outdoor elements. Its dense composition and superior hardness allow it to stand up well to sun, rain, snow and other exposure when used for applications like outdoor kitchen countertops or backsplashes.

What thickness options are available?

Gran Perla granite is most often cut into 2 cm or 3 cm thick slabs. Thinner cuts of 1 cm may crack or warp. For heavy duty floors, a thickness of 4 cm or more may be recommended to support heavier loads.