When it comes to designing kitchens, bathrooms, or feature walls, the stone you choose can transform a space from standard to spectacular. But not all stones are created equal โ and with so many options on the market, itโs easy to get lost in the terminology. Letโs break it down clearly so you can make the right choice for your next project.
๐ท What Is Natural Stone?
Natural stone includes materials like marble, granite, dolomite, limestone, travertine, onyx, and quartzite. Formed over millions of years, each slab is completely unique in pattern, veining, and tone โ no two are ever the same.
Why choose natural stone?
- Deep veining and natural movement.
- High heat resistance and long-lasting quality.
- Timeless design appeal for kitchens, bathrooms, stairs, and walls.
- Suitable for bookmatching and custom craftsmanship.
๐ท What Is Sintered Stone?
Sintered stone is made by applying extreme heat and pressure to natural minerals โ essentially replicating the Earth’s natural formation process in a controlled environment.
Benefits of sintered stone:
- Extremely durable (UV, stain, heat & scratch-resistant).
- Low maintenance and non-porous.
- Perfect for indoor/outdoor kitchens, benchtops, splashbacks, and high-use surfaces.
๐ท What Is Engineered Stone?
Engineered stone (commonly called quartz) is manufactured using crushed quartz combined with resin and pigments. While it provides a uniform appearance, it lacks the depth and heat resistance of natural or sintered stone.
Key facts:
- Not UV-stable (not for outdoor use).
- Can crack from thermal shock or large cut-outs.
- Best suited for indoor surfaces like vanities and benchtops.
๐ท What Is Porcelain Stone?
Porcelain is a clay-based surface fired at high temperatures and often printed to mimic natural stone visuals.
Considerations:
- Affordable and lightweight.
- Great for splashbacks, walls, and vertical cladding.
- Printed patterns can lack authenticity and may chip on edges.
๐ฐ Price & Performance Comparison
| Stone Type | Price ๐ฒ | Heat Resistance ๐ฅ | UV Stability โ๏ธ | Durability ๐ก๏ธ | Appearance ๐จ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Stone | $$$$ โ $$$$$ | โ Excellent | โ Excellent | โ Excellent | โญ Unique & Organic |
| Sintered Stone | $$$ โ $$$$ | โ Excellent | โ Excellent | โ Excellent | โญ Sleek & Consistent |
| Engineered Stone | $$$ | ๐ซ Poor | ๐ซ Poor | โ Good | โ Smooth & Uniform |
| Porcelain | $$ โ $$$ | โ Good | โ Good | โ Good | โ Printed Look |
๐งฎ Pricing at Bamby Stone is based on cutting area. Production starts at $0.015 per mm, and installation from $0.04 per mm. Total project pricing varies with design details.
๐ Our Recommendation
At Bamby Stone, we stand behind natural and sintered stone surfaces for their stunning aesthetics, durability, and long-term value. These options donโt just look beautiful โ they perform under real conditions and add sophistication to any space.
While engineered and porcelain options work well in specific scenarios, they simply donโt match the luxury and integrity of premium stone surfaces.
โจ Visit Us or Book a Free Consultation
Whether you’re dreaming of a statement marble island, a sintered outdoor kitchen, or a backlit quartzite feature wall, our expert team is here to help.
๐ Visit our showroom:
Unit 6, 8 Technology Drive, Arundel QLD 4214
๐ Call us: 1300 536 120
๐ Explore our stone range:
Explore All Stones
๐๏ธ Book a free design consultation:
Book for Free Showroom Tour & Consolation
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