Granite is a common, coarse-grained, hard igneous rock consisting chiefly of quartz, orthoclase or microcline, and mica. Granite has been used as a building material since ancient times. It is one of the oldest and most durable building products available, and will far outlast the building in which it is installed. It has become the material of choice for today’s luxury homes and offices because of its enduring beauty, and because no synthetic material can yet compare to its elegance and performance. Granite is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom counter tops. Granite tiles of 20 to 50 mm thickness are widely used as covering and building materials for counters, cashier desks, shelves, benches and tables. These surfaces are often referred to as granite, but in fact they can consist of different stone types that include granite and marble.