Have you ever questioned where your natural stone tile comes from? Here at Opustone we are often asked about the benefits of one stone over the other, its origins and even the history of the material.  This summer, Opustone invites you to explore the history and craft of natural stones as we jet set you around the world.

While the first use of stones in building shelters and structures can’t be traced, the first quarries are believed to originate in the Aswan area of Egypt. Back then, quarries were mined with simple tools like hammers, picks, and chisels made of stone bronze or iron. From these early quarries, man was able to extract high quantities of natural stone to be used to make incredible lasting impressions for years to come. Now that summer is in full effect, there is no better time to escape the every day and explore the world’s stone monuments that have inspired humans for thousands of years.

Marble is a  beautiful and resilient material as it is classic. The stone’s ethereal white glow has captivated peoples gaze in ancient theaters, in sculpture and in palatial settings worldwide.

Marble stone has been used structurally in landmarks like the Parthenon in Greece to the Taj Mahal in India. It’s also been highly used in art and interior decor like in the hall of mirrors found in Versailles in France and in the form of tiles all over the world.

Granite, the Earth’s oldest igneous rock is without a doubt also one of the oldest building blocks. The mining of Granite is regarded as one of the oldest industries in the world; existing as far back as Ancient Egypt. This early industry allowed for the construction of iconic structures that still stand today in Egypt. Ancient Egyptians used granite to adorn the tombs and support the inner layers of the great pyramids.

Here in the U.S. millions have enjoyed granite in its natural form in Yosemite National Park, one of the oldest National Parks. Both the iconic Half Dome and El Capitan are cliffs of natural granite that tower over the Yosemite Valley.

An often forgotten natural stone material is Soapstone. This material with its incredible heat properties is not only great for kitchen counters, it is also enjoyed by millions of spectators a year in Rio de Janeiro with the Christ The Redeemer Statue overlooking Rio.

Quartzite, not to be confused with quartz, is a metamorphic rock naturally formed from sandstone after undergoing years of heat and pressure. Quartzite comes in an array of colors which has dazzled artists for centuries. Some of the largest ancient Egyptian statues and busts are carved from Quartzite.

Whether you find yourself tanning in Rio, Exploring pyramids on camelback, or rock climbing in Yosemite this summer. Opustone invites you to appreciate the natural stone beauty that’s around you, even if that beauty lives in the form of marble stone tiles or a granite countertop at home.