Natural Stone
Granite, slate, limestone, marble — geological materials that exist as-is, no chemistry required.
Toxicity Screening — All Clear
This material screens clear across all seven independent toxicology authorities we use on every project.
Material Type
Quarried Mineral Material
Material Description
Natural stone — granite, slate, limestone, marble, sandstone, soapstone — is exactly what comes out of the quarry, cut and polished. The product is essentially zero-chemistry: no binders, no resins, no stabilizers, no additives. There's no off-gassing because there's nothing to off-gas. Stone is durable to a fault — well-maintained granite countertops outlast their cabinetry by generations. The considerations to manage are radon (granite occasionally contains uranium-bearing inclusions; modern imports are tested), sealer chemistry (specify zero-VOC penetrating sealers), and embodied energy (quarrying and shipping have real carbon costs, especially for imported stone).
Composition & Origin
Health Profile — All Endpoints Clear
Severity scored 0–10 against the same 10 hazard endpoints we use for the chemical families on the avoid list. Every score is 1–2 — essentially no signal across every endpoint.
Common Forms & Brands
- Granite, marble, limestone, travertine, slate
- Soapstone (talc + chlorite + magnesite)
- Sandstone, bluestone, basalt
- Common framing: slab, tile, dimensional cladding, flagstone, cobblestone
Why We Use It
- Zero chemistry — pure quarried mineral
- Multi-generational durability with proper maintenance
- Heat-resistant (countertops) and non-combustible
- Recyclable and reusable at end of building life
- Watch for radon in some granites — test imports
Where It Performs Best
- Kitchen and bath countertops
- Floor and wall tile
- Exterior cladding, pavers, and walkways
- Fireplace and chimney facing
Building Applications for Natural Stone
Listed alphabetically. Where in a home this material earns its keep.
Bathroom Vanity Surfaces
Exterior Cladding & Veneer
Fireplace Surrounds & Hearths
Kitchen Countertops
Pavers, Patios, & Walkways
Stone Tile Flooring
Window & Door Sills