Are you looking for a material that changes from wood to your table or your work plan? Among the different possibilities, you will find marble, granite, but also ceramic. But how to choose well? What are their differences ? Please note that they can be distinguished by 4 aspects: their appearance, their resistance, their type of maintenance and their price. Let's look at all this in more detail. Let's go ! ????
What is marble?
Origin and use of marble
Derived from limestone, marble has the specificity of these pretty veins which make it so unique. Used in sculptures since Antiquity, it has always been very present in the most noble residences. This is what gave it this prestigious image, in addition to its great beauty. This is also the reason why it has lasted over time. In the 1930s for example, it was very often used as a tray on furniture such as sideboards or bedside tables. You will surely see some at a flea market! ️ ️
But of course the most recent heyday of marble was in the 1970s, where he was visible almost everywhere. It then fell into disuse, before making a comeback a few years ago, thanks to numerous brands which restored its reputation. So, currently, you will see it on lamps, tables, but also splashbacks and worktops.
Marble maintenance
Since marble is a very smooth material, it remains quite easy to maintain. This is why it is often used in cooking. That being said, certain precautions are still necessary. To start, you will need to apply a food varnish. Marble does not tolerate acidic products well, so be careful not to use white vinegar when cleaning it. Soapy water on a sponge is enough. 🧽
Be careful, however, keep in mind that it is a porous stone into which water can infiltrate. White marble is less porous than black marble, but as a precaution, always be sure to dry it well after cooking on it. On the other hand, you can also make a paste of baking soda and clean it with it if it is very dirty. Finally, know that you can apply beeswax about once a month to protect it and make it shine. ✨
Duration and solidity
There is no doubt that marble is a solid material. As we told you earlier, most of the furniture tops from the 30s are still in excellent condition! If you follow the maintenance tips regularly, then marble can last for centuries. In addition, know that it is a renewable material, which can be restored by professionals, approximately once every 10 years. Also know that it is very strong and resistant to scratches and heat. You won't even need a trivet! 🔥
Marble price
Marble is known to be an expensive material due to its very luxurious appearance. In reality, you will find them from €40 per square meter. Prices then rise to €140. Why such a gap? Because the price varies depending on the color. Count around €40 per square meter for pink marble, between €40 and €80 for white or green marble, and between €80 and €140 for black marble. We will see, a little further, the prices of granite and ceramics. It could be that marble is far from being the most expensive! 💰
What is granite?
Origin and use of granite
Of volcanic origin, granite is actually made up of minerals such as quartz, feldspar and mica. It has long been used outdoors to build houses. Much appreciated for its varied colors and its grainy appearance, he ended up conquering interiors little by little. It is a material that gives a lot of charm and character, as well as a touch of originality in kitchens and dining rooms. One of its many advantages is the large choice of colors. In fact, granite comes in a hundred different colors! You will therefore inevitably find the one that matches your interior. 🥰
Granite maintenance
Maintaining granite is disconcertingly easy. You actually have almost nothing to do! However, it is advisable to apply a water-repellent product every year. As for maintenance products, granite tolerates acidity very well. You can therefore clean it with white vinegar for example. In addition, it is a very non-porous stone. There is therefore no risk of water infiltrating and damaging it from the inside. In short, it is a very resistant material with incomparable solidity. 💪
Duration and solidity
If you are looking for a solid material that can withstand absolutely anything, granite is for you! Like marble, it is heat and scratch resistant, making it a perfect material to use as a countertop. But that's not all. Due to its low porosity, it is also very resistant to stains. On the other hand, it is also very strong against shocks and other pressures. This is the ideal stone if you have children at home! 👧
Granite price

What is ceramic?
Origin and use of ceramics
Widely used in tableware and gardening, ceramic is one of the materials most used by man for millennia. It reached its peak during Antiquity, where it was used to make amphorae, pottery, vases and tableware. This is an excellent guarantee of its solidity since we can still find these relics of the past today, sometimes intact! (I.e.
Nowadays, it is also used to make table tops or work surfaces. We were also talking to you about its close cousin, Dekton, in our 5 tips for fitting out your kitchen with a high table. Regarding his appearance, ceramic resembles marble, as it often consists of similar veins to the latter. You can also find plain-looking ceramics.
Ceramic maintenance
Just like granite, ceramic is very easy to maintain. In fact, it supports acids and remains very waterproof, which means that it is not afraid of stains. In addition, you can use the scraper of a sponge without risking scratching it. It is therefore also very suitable for use as a work surface. For cleaning, you can simply take a sponge soaked in soapy water, or water and white vinegar. This will be enough to restore its cleanliness and shine! 🧼
Duration and solidity
Ceramic is made of clay, shaped and heated to very high temperatures. This process therefore makes it very resistant to heat. Furthermore, despite its fragility when used as pottery, it remains very strong against shocks and pressures, when used as a tray. The reason is simple: it is thicker! In short, it is a very durable and resistant material, which can easily last for decades in your interior. Now let's look at the question of price. 💶
Ceramic prices
Ceramic has many similar benefits to granite, so one might expect similarly high prices. In fact, ceramic is cheaper than granite! Its prices are included between €50 and €250 per square meter, depending on its thickness. Knowing that it has an appearance similar to marble, it is an excellent compromise between the two previous materials! 😉
Now you know everything about the differences between marble, granite and ceramic.
Remember that:
- Marble is a luxurious material although its price remains more affordable than that of granite. It does, however, require special maintenance.
- Granite is an extremely durable material, whether to heat, high pressure, scratches or acidity. On the other hand, you will need to plan a larger budget than for marble and ceramics.
- Ceramic, for its part, combines ease of maintenance, resistance, and a price between that of marble and granite. In addition, the latter strongly resembles marble, with its marked veins.
If you liked this article, do not hesitate to read this one, on our 8 decorative inspirations for adopting the central island in your kitchen!
See you soon at Ripaton! ☀️