[ RadSafe ] Radioactivity in Granite Countertops

[S L Gawarecki]

Dan covered the original question quite well.

As far as countertops go: "granite" is a generic term applied to
crystalline igneous and metamorphic rocks, and "marble" is a generic term
applied to crystalline limestones/dolomites, marbles, and serpentinites.
This makes us geologists crazy.

And yes, the properties of the various "granites" (and "marbles") can vary
regarding hardness and durability.

Susan Gawarecki

Stewart Farber wrote:
<< True granite to me has certain specific properties which would not be
seen
in marble, or other types of dimension stone you mention. Your reference to:
the Colorado School of Mines Rock Classification Scheme - "CLASSIFICATION OF
ROCKS" definition as to what is true "granite" is interesting.  If a stone
does not meet the classification of "true granite", has a buyer paid for and
not received a stone counter which has properties as to durability,
hardness,  etc. that are not up to what it should have been?>>