Memorial materials: properties and care
Turkish marble
Turkish marble is a strong material offering good value for money. It has a pleasant grey-blue hue and a natural pattern of veins or cloud-like transitions.
In some cases, yellowish marks may appear. These are not considered defects, do not affect the quality of the stone and, in most cases, disappear on their own over time. The polished surface may gradually lose some of its shine over the years.
Inscriptions: paint in engraved lettering, especially on horizontal surfaces, may fade and wear away quickly. We therefore recommend a black granite insert or plaque for the inscription. Engraving on granite is long-lasting and does not require renewal.
Care: rinse the surface with water first, then gently wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Do not rub the stone with a dry cloth, especially when dust or sand is present: this may scratch the polish and cause it to lose its shine faster.
Avoid placing flowers directly on the stone. Wilting flowers and moisture may leave marks, while dyes from coloured wrapping may stain the surface. Use a vase or a dedicated holder instead.
In our experience, ordinary Israeli chlorine bleach (אקונומיקה) helps remove organic surface stains from Turkish marble without damaging its surface. This method is not intended for stains originating inside the stone.
Precautions: wear protective gloves and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Follow the instructions on the packaging. Do not mix chlorine bleach with other cleaning products, especially acids or ammonia: this may release toxic gases.
Warranty — 15 years.
Hebron stone
Hebron stone is a natural limestone with pleasant, warm beige and cream tones and pinkish veins.
Small natural cavities occur in some areas of the stone and are filled with a special compound during processing. Over time, the filler may partially break down, leaving small recesses. Moisture and dirt may accumulate in them, contributing to a greenish surface deposit. The polished surface loses its shine relatively quickly, so the stone requires regular care.
Inscriptions: paint in engraved lettering, especially on horizontal surfaces, may fade and wear away quickly. We therefore recommend a black granite insert or plaque for the inscription. Engraving on granite is long-lasting and does not require renewal.
Care: rinse the surface with water first, then gently wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Do not rub the stone with a dry cloth, especially when dust or sand is present: this may scratch the polish and cause it to lose its shine faster.
Avoid placing flowers directly on the stone. Wilting flowers and moisture may leave marks, while dyes from coloured wrapping may stain the surface. Use a vase or a dedicated holder instead.
Warranty — 10 years.
Granite
Granite is one of the strongest materials for memorials. It withstands weather exposure, and its polished surface retains its shine for many years.
The most commonly used varieties are black Assoluto, red Ruby Red, bluish Wisag Blue and light-grey Sardo with dark speckles.
Black, red and blue granites are among the most expensive materials. Grey Sardo is a more affordable option, costing only slightly more than marble.
Ruby Red and Wisag Blue have virtually no significant drawbacks when used for memorials.
Black Assoluto granite may become slightly lighter over the years. It also gets very hot in the sun. Do not pour cold water over heated stone: a sudden temperature change may cause cracks. A soft, slightly damp cloth is sufficient for care; cleaning is best done in the morning or evening, once the stone has cooled.
In some cases, light-grey Sardo granite may develop marks. These are not considered defects, do not affect the quality of the stone and, in most cases, disappear on their own over time.
Light-grey Sardo granite care: Avoid placing flowers directly on the stone. Wilting flowers and moisture may leave marks, while dyes from coloured wrapping may stain the surface. Use a vase or a dedicated holder instead.
If surface stains appear, contact us for cleaning advice suited to the material and the cause of the stain. Marks caused by moisture emerging from inside the stone disappear on their own in most cases.
Warranty — 20 years.
Natural stone
Natural-stone memorials are most often made from Galil stone or dark basalt, preserving their natural rounded shape.
Galil stone has a pleasant, warm hue similar to Hebron stone, but slightly more yellowish. Basalt has a dark colour.
These are strong materials with virtually no significant drawbacks when used for memorials. Their cost is considerably higher than that of Hebron stone and Turkish marble.
Warranty — 15 years.
