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Materials |
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ValdostaMemorials.com, we look at each memorial as a unique
expression of an individual or family. However, general differences in
appearance are explained by the following options in material. |
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Granite: Modern
memorials are generally fabricated from granite, as opposed to marble,
because granite is more durable and less expensive. (Granite rates 7 on
the hardness scale, while marble rates 3.) In addition, Granite
Colors come in a wide variety. |
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Formed from molten rock, granite is composed mainly of three different
minerals. The most common mineral in granite is feldspar, and it appears
as white flecks. Quartz appears as gray glass-like flecks, while the
black streaks are biotite, also known as black mica. |
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Marble:
Although granite has become the most popular option, marble is still
very popular, mainly for its striking white appearance, which cannot be
replicated by granite. Marble also comes in shades ranging from white to
black.
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| Unlike granite, marble is made up of only one mineral: calcite. Marble
is formed from limestone that has been subjected to extreme pressure and
heat deep below the earth’s surface. |
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Bronze:
Known for its resistance to weathering, bronze is often used in
conjunction with stone memorials or on its own for
lawn markers, vases,
sculptures, plaques, and signs.
Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin and sometimes other elements. |
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Other
Types of Stone
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Limestone:
Sedimentary rock formed from shells and fossils. It has a nice look due
to its simple and natural appearance. Unlike granite and marble,
limestone has very little variegation and does not take a polish. In
addition, it has very little color variation, ranging from white to
gray. Limestone is easy to work with due to its relative softness.
Sandstone:
Sedimentary rock formed from quartz and a binding mineral such as silica
or calcium carbonate. Like limestone, sandstone is soft, shapes easily,
has little variegation, and does not take a polish. It ranges in color
from white to red. Brownstone is a type of sandstone.
Travertine:
A compressed form of limestone that resembles marble and can be polished
like marble. It forms when calcium carbonate separates from water
through evaporation. It often forms around the mouths of hot springs and
in streams. Rock formations called stalactites and stalagmites, which
are found in caves, consist primarily of travertine. Source:
artistictile.net.
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