Cultured marble is manufactured from fiberglass resin, crushed limestone and color pigments. Granite is a natural stone. Both are found on countertops, walls and other locations in the home, but there are major differences between them.

Cost

Granite is far more expensive to buy and to install than cultured marble. The cost of granite depends not only on finding, cutting and shipping it from its natural location, but also on the rareness of the color and pattern of the stone chosen. Each piece is unique. Installation of granite slabs requires careful measuring, cutting, buffing and grouting. Granite can also be purchased precut into tiles, which are less expensive than buying a large slab.

To produce cultured marble, a mold is built to fit the size and shape desired by the home owner. The resin, powdered stone, coloring and other ingredients are blended and then poured into the mold. After it hardens, it is covered with a clear gelcoat sealant. This process is inexpensive to do, and makes the installation fairly quick and easy.

Durability

The gelcoat placed on cultured marble gives it a non-porous, stain-resistant surface. It does, however, scratch easily, and scratches can become discolored. Granite is highly resistant to being scraped, chipped or stained, and is almost impossible to scratch or jab with a knife. It is one of the hardest and strongest stones found in nature. Cultured marble often comes with a 3 to 5 year warranty. With proper upkeep, granite is expected to last a lifetime.

Uses

Granite is often used on kitchen and bathroom countertops, and granite tile can be found on floors and walls. Cultured marble is commonly used in bathtubs, shower bases, walls, vanity tops and commode plates, as well as for planters and decorative accessories. Cultured marble is rarely used for kitchen countertops because it may scratch and chip easily under tough kitchen use.

Upkeep

Granite is sealed when installed, and may need resealing after several years of use. Cultured marble is given a protective coating as part of the manufacturing process. Because it scratches easily, abrasive cleansers should not be used to clean it.

Patterns and Colors

Granite comes in many colors and patterns, with the most common being gray with a fairly uniform speckled appearance. Patterns with swirls, called "movement," and unusual colors will add to the cost. Granite can be found in shades of gray, brown, pink, coral, green and even blue.

Cultured marble usually comes in neutral colors similar to those found in natural marble. It can also be manufactured to look like granite or slate, and some is made with bold colors. Because many choices are available, it pays to look at a offerings from several manufacturers.