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When a dark stone material is dyed to achieve the desired color, it can present a host of problems for stone fabricators
I have received numerous calls lately concerning the fading of dark granite countertops. The most common complaints seem to be on Absolute Black, Black Galaxy, Zimbabwe Black and a few others. I have heard many fabricators try to blame the fading on the misuse of cleaning chemicals, acids, etc. While one should not use inappropriate chemicals on granite surfaces, this is often not the reason for the increase in black granite fading.
What would cause a dark granite to fade?
Actually, black granite should never fade. However, some black granite imported into the U.S. is doctored with dyes and oils to darken the surface. Dyes can include homemade blends such as charcoal and linseed oil. Prepackaged color enhancers are also used to darken granite. The fading is nothing more than the dyes and oils being removed. Of course, the wrong chemical will take the dye out...