- 1). Visit a granite retail store and note the various patterns and colors of granite. A common form of granite available from almost anywhere is the typical black, gray and white speckled granite – usually graded as a “base granite;” this granite is the most inexpensive form compared with other slabs.
- 2). Review the granite available and note the variations between the speckled granite and the veined granite. Granite dealers and retailers start with the base granite in one grade, and step up from there.
- 3). Note the quality of the veins in the granite. Granite with more veins or odd colors will rank higher than those of common appearance. When the granite takes on the look of a fine art painting, more than likely, it will be at the top end of the grading and pricing scale. Granite retailers or fabricators may also separate and grade granite based on its popularity. Other factors include production requirements, the country of origin, current decoration trends, veins and patterns.
- 4). Look for movement or distinctive patterns within the combinations of color in the granite. Black granite, for instance, with rose or other contrasting colors and veins, will be in the top grade of granite. Commonly graded granite includes the base granite and those with speckles of gray, black, brown, mauve and peach. As the patterns change from speckles to ones with veins and other qualities, the price and grade increases. Some granites are found in only one location in the world and will typically be at the top of the grading and pricing scale.
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