There Is No Such Thing As Pure White Granite
The quick and dirty answer to whether pure white granite exists is a resounding no. Pure white granite is not found in nature and the closest thing to it is a diamond. Being composed of natural minerals, every stone is unique, which means that no two granites are exactly the same color or appearance. The thing that makes granite look white has little to do with its chemistry and more with its optical properties. A “white” granite might have large amounts of quartz, rutile, feldspar, and mica all mixed together in varying concentrations depending on the layer in which they were formed.
Each mineral has a different index of refraction values ranging from 1.54 through 2.65 (Rutile being the highest at 1.56). Index of Refractions are values that describe how light passes
Quartz is the Answer for Pure White Stone Countertops
Quartz countertops give you the benefits of granite with less cost and have a more consistent color. Pure white quartz is not achievable but it can be close to that shade.
Quartz in its purest form is actually colorless, so it cannot be naturally white like granites are (as mentioned above). However, manufacturers mix pigments into the stone to make it appear closer to white than its actual natural state. Pure white quartz gives you many options as far as design goes because you can do almost anything with it including engraving, etching, laser burning or just leaving it plain.
The biggest advantage that quartz has is production time, which is significantly less than what’s needed for granite; anywhere from ten to twenty-five days depending on where you live. Pure white quartz is also significantly less expensive than its natural brother, Granite. If you’re looking for a very uniform white countertop look; quartz countertops might be right for you.
What Granite Colors are Closest to Pure White?
There are some granites that come close to being pure white, but there is always a slight color variation. A few popular most white granite choices are Dallas White, Princess White, and Colonial White. These options may not be completely white in appearance but they are mostly white and these granites each have attractive textures that add character.
Natural or Sleek, What’s Your Preference?
Some people prefer the natural look of stone and don’t mind if it’s not entirely “white” and some people don’t like the natural look of stone and want it to appear “white.” Pure white quartz is the answer if you fall in the latter category. Pure White Quartz countertops are a great option for someone looking for consistent color.
Quartz, although not absolutely pure, offers many opportunities to be customized into any shade you want because pure white quartz can be tinted to practically any color imaginable with pigments that are mixed into the material during production (all naturally occurring). Pure white quartz tolerates heat extremely well which makes it ideal as a kitchen work surface or bathroom vanity. Pure White Quartz is also one of the most hygienic surfaces available.
Where Can I Find Pure White Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertop manufacturers like Caesarstone, Silestone, and Cambria produce Pure White Quartz. If your local fabricator doesn’t have it in stock they should be able to order it for you with little to no problem.
In Conclusion
You cannot find pure-white granite. However, quartz countertops come in a range of pure whites and can be tinted by the manufacturer to match your desired look. They also are heat resistant and durable, making them ideal work surfaces for kitchens or bathrooms.