Marble makes a beautiful benchtop, but it is softer and more acid reactive than quartzite or dolomite, so acidic foods and some cleaners can etch the surface over time. A honed finish disguises etching better than polished. It suits clients who accept a surface that develops a patina; for a busy family kitchen, quartzite or dolomite may be the more practical choice.

Calacatta is a premium Italian marble known for its bright white to creamy base and bold, dramatic veining. Europe Imports supplies several Calacatta varieties, including Calacatta Arabescato Viola, with burgundy and violet veining, and the classic Calacatta Macchia and Arabascato Corchia.

Both are metamorphic stones, but quartzite forms from sandstone and is considerably harder and more resistant to etching, while marble forms from limestone and is softer and acid reactive. Marble generally offers deeper polish and more dramatic veining; quartzite offers greater durability. We supply both in slab format.

Yes. Marble is porous, so sealing helps resist staining, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. Sealing does not prevent etching from acids, which is a chemical reaction with the stone itself. We supply Chemforce Stain Protector and can advise on the right sealing and maintenance approach for your slab.

Polished marble shows the full depth of colour and veining and reflects light, but etching and wear show more readily. Honed marble has a soft matt finish that disguises etching and everyday wear better, which is why it is increasingly specified for kitchens and high use areas.

We recommend it. Every marble slab is unique, and veining and colour vary between blocks and between slabs. Book an appointment and our team can arrange a slab viewing so you and your fabricator can select and reserve the slabs for your project.

Marble is best used under cover, in poolside pavilions, covered outdoor kitchens and indoor spa zones, rather than as open paving exposed to weather and pool chemicals. For open outdoor areas, travertine, limestone and quartzite are generally more suitable. For pool interiors, the Zen glass mosaic range offers a marble look in non porous glass.

Our marble slabs are typically supplied at 2cm. Slab dimensions vary by block, so confirm the size and thickness of the specific slabs with our team before your fabricator finalises the layout.