MARBLE

Durability & Strength

• Relatively soft natural stone — most marbles will NOT resist scratches from knives and many metal utensils.
• Moderately heat resistant — can handle hot pots and pans, though trivets are recommended to avoid thermal shock.
• Marble can chip under normal use.
• Some marbles, commonly referred to as “hard marbles” (such as Fantasy Brown), have properties more similar to granites, making them more durable than a “soft marble.”

Resistance to Stains & Moisture

• Porous by nature — absorbs liquids if not sealed properly.
• Prone to staining from wine, oils, coffee, and acidic foods.
• Etching (dull spots or marks) can occur from acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, or cleaners, even when sealed.

Appearance

• Marble slabs are not uniform in look. There are various minerals in marble that create the diverse, natural look that each slab has. Those minerals also have different reflective properties, so not all parts of the slab may shine the same way. This general rule of thumb applies with all slab finishes (polished, leathered, and honed).
• No two slabs are the same. Embrace the natural beauty of each slab!
• Some marbles will develop a patina over time, adding character and depth to the stone as it “ages.”

Surface Texture

• Note that all natural stone slabs (even polished ones) may have surface imperfections that you can feel with your nail or finger. Since marble is a natural stone made up of various minerals, pits and fissures between adjacent minerals can sometimes be felt.
• If you want a glossy finish, opt for polished slabs. 
• If you want a matte finish with a smooth, yet raised texture, opt for leathered slabs.
• If you want a matte finish with a little-to-no texture, opt for honed slabs.
• Note that matte or leathered finishes will help to disguise minor scratches more than polished finishes.

Repairability

• Chips, cracks, and scratches can often be repaired by trained professionals.
• Etching cannot be reversed. Rather, the entire area will need to be honed or re-honed by a stone professional in order to disguise the etching.
• Not all stains can be successfully removed.

Cleaning & Care Instructions

• Daily Cleaning: Use mild dish soap or granite-safe cleaners with a soft cloth.
• Products to avoid: Vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, ammonia, or abrasive pads.
• Sealing: Re-seal when water no longer beads on the surface.
• Other tips: Wipe up spills (especially wine, oils, coffee, and acidic foods) immediately to prevent staining. Use cutting boards and coasters to protect the surface from scratches. Accept that scratches, patina, and wear are part of marble’s charm.