Marble countertops have become increasingly popular among homeowners and designers alike, and for good reason. At Ampquartz, Johor Bahru's premier marble supplier, we understand the enduring appeal of this luxurious material
The Rich History of Marble
Marble has been a symbol of luxury and elegance for centuries. From ancient Roman structures to modern skyscrapers, marble has consistently been chosen to make a statement
This rich history now extends to our homes, with marble countertops becoming a sought-after feature in kitchens and bathrooms.
“Take, for instance, the breathtaking rooftop view of the Great Mosque of Mecca, the world's largest mosque, and the unique architectural style of the Mormon Temple in Salt Lake City. These are profoundly connected, just as the opulent lobby floors of JPMorgan Chase's New York headquarters share a common thread with the lavish furnishings and decor seen at Kim Kardashian's wedding.”
This connection transcends time and geography, showcasing symbols of wealth, power, status, and identity in diverse forms. Yet, one element remains constant across all these examples — Italian marble. This material serves as a testament to luxury and timeless elegance, consistently chosen by those looking to make a statement.
Why Choose Marble Countertops?
Unmatched Aesthetics: Marble countertops offer a unique, natural beauty that artificial materials can't replicate. Each slab of marble is one-of-a-kind, with intricate veining patterns that add character to any space.
We understand this allure and stand firmly behind the enduring appeal of marble, a material that has captivated hearts and adorned spaces with unmatched grace and sophistication.
The Michelangelo Connection
Over 500 hundred years ago, Michelangelo, a young visionary, relocated to Tuscany with his father in northwestern Italy following the death of his mother. It was there he first witnessed the enduring “snow” atop the Alps, an unforgettable spectacle. This wasn't just any snow, but a magnificent expanse of white stone, locally revered as “Marmo.”
The sheer abundance of this stone surpassed all expectations. From the shores of any neighboring town, one could distinctly see the marble mountains, their peaks cloaked in a perpetual blanket of white.
The allure of marble can be traced back to great artists like Michelangelo, who saw the potential in this magnificent stone. Just as Michelangelo transformed blocks of marble into masterpieces, today's craftsmen transform marble slabs into stunning countertops that serve as the centerpiece of modern homes
Marble Countertops: A Symbol of Status
Throughout history, marble has been associated with wealth and power. Today, installing marble countertops in your home continues this tradition, adding a touch of opulence to your living spaces. From the lobby floors of prestigious buildings to the countertops in high-end homes, marble remains a coveted material
Choosing the Right Marble for Your Countertops
When selecting marble for your countertops, consider factors such as:
- Color variations
- Veining patterns
- Finish options (polished, honed, or leathered)
- Thickness of the slab
Marble Is More Than Stone.
The city of Carrara, known for its rich marble deposits, was named by the Italians and means “quarry” in Latin. This area was home to hundreds of quarries, both large and small, as far back as ancient Rome.
The Romans were willing to pay a high price for the marble from this region to build their iconic buildings of imperial power such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum, and the Temple of Baalbek.
Caesar Augustus, one of Rome's most successful leaders, proudly stated that he inherited a stone city but left a marble city. This shows that in the eyes of ancient Romans, marble was not just a stone, but a precious material due to its rarity and unique color.
Marble countertops are more than just a surface for food preparation or personal grooming. They are a statement piece that adds value and beauty to your home. By choosing marble countertops, you're not just investing in a durable and functional surface, but also in a piece of art that will be admired for years to come. For the best marble countertops in Johor Bahru, look no further than Ampquartz.
Our extensive collection and expertise ensure that you'll find the perfect marble to transform your space into a luxurious haven
The Famous Marble Statue Michelangelo's David of Florence
The fascinating whiteness of marble was born in the dark. Millions of years ago, the original rocks in the earth's crust formed metamorphic rocks through high temperature and high pressure. The internal forces of the earth's crust promoted the changes in the structure of various stones, creating a rock structure that contains calcium carbonate.
These white crystals initially slept at the bottom of the ocean but slowly rose during a crustal movement many years later, forming many mountains in southern Europe. In some areas, it rose to 6000 feet (1828.8 meters), one of it is the Apuan Alps, the marble on the mountain formed in a way where people found it.
One of the quarries in the Apuan Alps once belonged to Michelangelo's father. Under the influence of his father's masons, Michelangelo learned to use hammers and chisels skillfully, just like all the children in this area.
However, the white stones on the mountains have a different appearance and view in his heart. After growing up, Michelangelo studied sculpture art, and most of his inspiration came from this.
Michelangelo made the famous marble statue Michelangelo's David of Florence, and it is at the Accademia Gallery. It is made from marble on Carrara Hill.
Inside Italy's $1 billion mountains that produce more tons of marble than anywhere else on Earth. ————– Business Insider
In those days, carving the 17,000-pound (7711 kilogram) “David” was no simple task, but Michelangelo still had a crazier wish in his heart, he had fantasized about carving the entire mountain into a statue. However, this was just a romantic imagination of a Renaissance artist.
Michelangelo quickly dispelled this idea and told others about it, as that is just a joke. However, people found this sentence: “If I can live four times longer, then I must achieve this crazy dream,” in his diary in his later years. Human life is limited, but marble is not.
Marble Getting More People Love It: The Symbol of Wealth and Power.
For centuries, marble has continually captured the affection and admiration of people worldwide. Since ancient Rome, the techniques and tools for extracting marble have significantly transformed, evolving from rudimentary axes and cattle to modern chainsaws and tractors.
Despite these advancements, one aspect remains steadfast: the extraction of vast blocks of white stone, their transportation over great distances, and their meticulous processing into symbols of wealth and power. The complex extraction process, the expensive transportation, and the scarcity of these colored marbles position them as luxury commodities, embodying wealth and a distinct mark of status and authority.
Indeed, marble's history is a testament to social stratification and wealth over the past few centuries. From ancient Rome through the Victorian era in London to the bustling streets of 20th-century New York, the demand for marble has been unceasing.
Today, its reach extends beyond thousands of miles to cities like Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, and even Beijing. Marble, akin to gold, has emerged as a coveted symbol of affluence and power, owing to its unique characteristics and rarity. The mining and utilization of marble stand unparalleled compared to any other material.
Photographer Luca Locatelli has adeptly captured the essence of those who work in the marble mines of Carrara through his evocative photography.
Marble is no longer a deserted Renaissance sculpture standing in a museum but has become smooth tiles of a lively shopping mall, the luxurious sinks of high-end hotels, the exquisite lobby of skyscrapers, and countless statues of people.
When comparing marble countertops to other materials in terms of durability, it's important to consider factors such as hardness, resistance to scratches and stains, and maintenance requirements. Here's how marble stacks up against other popular countertop options:
Marble vs. Granite and Quartz
Hardness and Scratch Resistance
Marble is softer than both granite and quartz, ranking 3-5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes marble more susceptible to scratches and etching, especially from acidic substances. In contrast, granite ranks 6-7 on the Mohs scale, making it highly resistant to scratches and chips. Quartz, being an engineered stone, is even more durable and ranks 7 on the Mohs scale, offering superior scratch resistance.
Stain Resistance and Porosity
Marble is more porous than granite and quartz, making it more prone to staining. This characteristic requires more frequent sealing to maintain its appearance and prevent stains. Granite, while also porous, is less so than marble and requires sealing every 1-2 years. Quartz, being non-porous, offers the best stain resistance and doesn't require sealing at all.
Heat Resistance
Marble has moderate heat resistance, while granite offers high heat resistance (up to 1,200°F). Quartz, despite its durability in other aspects, has lower heat resistance (up to 300°F) compared to both marble and granite.
Longevity and Maintenance
With proper care, marble countertops can last 20-50 years. However, they require more maintenance than other materials. Marble needs yearly sealing and careful cleaning to prevent staining and etching.
Granite countertops, with proper maintenance, can last a lifetime and need resealing every 1-2 years. Quartz countertops have an estimated lifespan of 10-15 years but require minimal maintenance due to their non-porous nature.
Comparative Durability Table
Material | Hardness (Mohs scale) | Stain Resistance | Heat Resistance | Maintenance |
---|---|---|---|---|
Marble | 3-5 | Low | Moderate | High |
Granite | 6-7 | Moderate | High | Moderate |
Quartz | 7 | High | Moderate | Low |
While marble offers unparalleled beauty and elegance, it is less durable compared to granite and quartz in terms of scratch and stain resistance. Marble requires more careful handling and regular maintenance to preserve its appearance over time.
For busy households or high-traffic areas, granite or quartz may be more practical choices due to their superior durability and lower maintenance requirements. However, with proper care and appreciation for its unique characteristics, marble can still be a stunning and long-lasting option for countertops, particularly in areas where aesthetics are prioritized over heavy use.
“I'm interested in marble and wondering if you are too. If you're looking for the best marble slabs, look no further than Ampquartz – a marble supplier located in Johor Bahru. They'll guide you in choosing excellent quality marble.”