Types of Natural Stone: Complete Guide to Granite, Marble, Sandstone, Limestone, Cobbles and Pebbles

Walk into any building supplies yard in Mauritius and you will see the same handful of stones again and again: granite, marble, sandstone, limestone, cobbles and pebbles. They look different, they cost different amounts, and they behave very differently once they are installed on a coastal villa, a hotel pool deck or a busy driveway. For wholesalers and distributors, knowing these differences is what separates a smooth project from a costly callback.

This guide covers every major type of natural stone traded in Mauritius. You will learn how each stone forms, its key properties, the finishes it comes in, where it performs best, and where it should be avoided. If you supply contractors, architects, landscapers or developers, use it as your reference before you stock or recommend a stone.

How Natural Stone Is Classified

Every natural stone belongs to one of three geological families. The family tells you a lot about how the stone will behave in daily use.

• Igneous stone forms when molten rock cools and hardens. Granite is the best known example. Slow cooling creates tightly locked crystals, which is why granite is so hard and dense. The local basalt found across Mauritius is also igneous, formed from the island's volcanic past.
• Sedimentary stone forms when layers of sand, shells and minerals are compressed over millions of years. Sandstone and limestone fall into this group. They are usually more porous and easier to cut, with natural layering and fossils in some varieties.
• Metamorphic stone forms when existing rock is transformed by heat and pressure. Marble is limestone that has recrystallised, giving it its famous veining and smooth, translucent look.

Cobbles and pebbles are not separate rock types. They are product formats. Cobbles are usually cut or split from granite, sandstone or basalt, while pebbles are rounded stones shaped by rivers and beaches or tumbled by machine.

Natural Stone Comparison Table

The table below compares the main stones side by side. Figures are typical ranges. Individual varieties and quarries can fall outside them, so always check the technical data for the exact lot you are buying.

Granite: The Hardest Working Natural Stone

Granite is made mostly of quartz, feldspar and mica. Those interlocking crystals give it its speckled or flowing patterns and make it one of the toughest building stones in the world. It resists scratches, heat and most household chemicals, and its low porosity means it absorbs very little water.

Key properties of granite

• High scratch and abrasion resistance, suited to heavy foot traffic
• Withstands hot pans and strong sunlight without fading
• Low water absorption, which limits staining and moisture damage
• Huge colour range, from absolute black and deep greens to whites, greys, reds and golds

Common granite finishes

• Polished: glossy, mirror-like surface for countertops and interior floors
• Honed: smooth matte surface with a softer, modern look
• Flamed: textured, slip-resistant surface created with high heat, ideal for outdoor paving and pool areas
• Leather: soft textured sheen that hides fingerprints and water marks

Where granite performs best

Granite is the safest all-rounder for Mauritius. It suits kitchen countertops, hotel lobbies, staircases, commercial floors, external steps and driveway paving. Flamed granite is a strong choice around pools because it stays grippy when wet. Distributors usually find that black and grey granites move fastest for countertops, while lighter flamed granites sell well for outdoor projects because they stay cooler underfoot.

See available colours, sizes and finishes on our granite page.

Marble: Timeless Luxury for Interiors

Marble is mainly calcite, a form of calcium carbonate. Its veining, soft glow and wide colour palette have made it the signature stone of luxury interiors for centuries. In Mauritius you will see it in villas, high-end apartments, hotel bathrooms and reception areas.

Key properties of marble

• Elegant veining and a polished finish that reflects light beautifully
• Softer than granite, so it can scratch and wear on high-traffic routes
• Reacts with acids such as lemon juice, vinegar and some cleaners, which leave dull etch marks
• Stays naturally cool, which suits the tropical climate indoors

Common marble finishes

• Polished: high gloss for living areas and feature walls
• Honed: matte finish that hides etching and scratches better than polished
• Tumbled: aged, rounded edges for a rustic or Mediterranean style

Where marble performs best

Marble is ideal for interior floors, bathroom walls and vanities, staircases inside homes, and decorative inlays. It is not the best choice for exposed outdoor paving in Mauritius, because strong UV, rain and salt air can dull the surface and some colours may fade. For kitchen countertops, advise clients that marble will develop a patina over time, or point them towards granite if they want a low-maintenance surface.

Explore white, green, beige and other varieties on our marble page.

Sandstone: Natural Texture for Outdoor Living

Sandstone is formed from sand grains, mostly quartz, bonded together by natural minerals. The result is a stone with a warm, earthy texture and natural grip. It is one of the most popular choices for patios, terraces and garden paths worldwide.

Key properties of sandstone

• Naturally slip-resistant surface, even when wet
• Warm colours such as buff, brown, pink, grey, yellow and multicolour
• More porous than granite, so sealing is recommended in humid and coastal areas
• Easy to cut and shape for steps, copings and cladding

Common sandstone finishes

• Natural or hand-split: riven surface for a rustic, grippy finish
• Sawn and sandblasted: flat, even surface with light texture
• Honed: smooth surface for semi-covered areas and interiors
• Tumbled: softened edges for a weathered, aged look

Where sandstone performs best

Sandstone is a favourite for pool surrounds, patios, garden paving, boundary wall cladding and resort landscaping. Its grip and natural look suit Mauritius beach homes and hotels. Because it is porous, a good penetrating sealer helps prevent algae and mould in shaded, damp spots, which is common during the island's wetter months.

View sizes, colours and finishes on our sandstone page.

Limestone: Calm, Uniform and Architectural

Limestone is a sedimentary stone made mostly of calcium carbonate, often from ancient marine shells and coral. It tends to have soft, even tones such as beige, cream, grey, blue-grey and black, which architects love for clean, modern designs.

Key properties of limestone

• Consistent colour with subtle patterns, ideal for large uniform areas
• Density varies a lot between varieties, so technical data matters
• Softer than granite and sensitive to acids, like marble
• Dense varieties are hard-wearing enough for heavy commercial floors

Common limestone finishes

• Honed: the most popular choice for elegant interior floors
• Polished: available for dense varieties that take a shine
• Leather, brushed or sandblasted: textured options for outdoor and wet areas
• Natural split: rugged surface for paving and landscaping

Where limestone performs best

Limestone works well for interior floors, building facades, wall cladding, staircases and covered verandas. Dense, low-absorption varieties also suit outdoor paving and are widely used in public spaces. For coastal Mauritius projects, recommend dense limestone with a textured finish and a quality sealer.

Check available varieties on our limestone page.

Cobbles: Built for Driveways and Heavy Traffic

Cobbles, also called cobblestones or setts, are small blocks of natural stone used to create durable, interlocking surfaces. Most are made from granite, sandstone or basalt. Their small size spreads loads well and allows them to flex slightly with the ground without cracking, which is why cobbled streets have lasted for centuries.

Key properties of cobbles

• Extremely durable under vehicle loads, especially in granite
• Natural texture that offers good grip in rain
• Easy to repair, as single blocks can be lifted and replaced
• Allows drainage between joints when laid with permeable jointing

Common cobble formats

• Cube cobbles: common sizes such as 100 x 100 mm with thickness from about 50 to 100 mm
• Rectangular setts: longer blocks for patterns like stretcher bond and herringbone
• Tumbled cobbles: softened edges for a rustic, old-world look
• Sawn top, split sides: flat walking surface with natural sides

Where cobbles perform best

Cobbles are the go-to choice for driveways, hotel entrances, courtyards, pathways, garden edging and decorative circles. For areas carrying cars or delivery trucks, recommend thicker granite cobbles laid on a properly compacted base. Thinner sandstone cobbles suit pedestrian paths and garden borders.

See sizes, colours and patterns on our cobbles page.

Pebbles: Finishing Touches for Landscaping and Décor

Pebbles are small, rounded stones shaped by flowing water or produced by tumbling stone in machines. They add colour, texture and a natural feel to outdoor and indoor spaces with very little installation work.

Key properties of pebbles

• Smooth, rounded shapes that are comfortable to walk on in small areas
• Wide colour choice including white, black, grey, yellow, red and mixed
• Available as natural river pebbles, polished pebbles and tumbled pebbles
• Help with drainage and weed control in garden beds

Common pebble sizes and finishes

• Small (about 10 to 20 mm): pathways, pot toppings, pebble mosaics
• Medium (about 20 to 40 mm): garden beds, borders, drainage channels
• Large (about 40 to 80 mm and above): feature areas, water features, dry riverbeds
• Polished: glossy look for décor, aquariums and indoor planters

Where pebbles perform best

Pebbles are popular for hotel and resort landscaping, garden beds, pool surroundings, water features, Japanese and zen gardens, and decorative wall panels. Note that some polished or brightly coloured pebbles on the market are machine polished or colour enhanced, so it helps to know whether your buyer wants a purely natural product.

Browse colours and sizes on our pebbles page.

Other Natural Stone Products

Beyond the main six categories, the natural stone trade includes many specialist items such as stone wall cladding panels, stepping stones, stone edging, boulders, garden features and architectural pieces. These are often bought in smaller quantities for finishing touches on landscaping and building projects.

See the full mix on our other products page.

Choosing the Right Stone by Application

Matching the stone to the job is the most important decision. Use this quick guide when advising contractors and project owners.

What Mauritius Climate Means for Natural Stone

Mauritius has a tropical maritime climate with strong sun, high humidity, heavy seasonal rain, cyclones and salt-laden air along the coast. These conditions are tougher on stone than many cooler markets, so a few rules help avoid problems.

• UV exposure: granite and most sandstones hold their colour well. Some marbles and dark limestones can fade in direct sun.
• Heat underfoot: lighter stones stay cooler around pools and terraces. Dark polished granite can get very hot in full sun.
• Rain and slip risk: outdoor surfaces need texture. Choose flamed, sandblasted, natural split or tumbled finishes instead of polished.
• Salt air: salt crystals can enter porous stone and cause surface flaking over time. Denser stones and good sealing reduce this risk in seafront projects.
• Humidity and algae: shaded, damp areas can grow algae on porous stone. Sealing, good drainage and regular cleaning keep surfaces safe and clean.
• Cyclone season: loose pebbles and lightweight décor should be contained with edging in exposed areas.

Thickness Guide for Common Applications

The right thickness depends on the load and the installation method. These are common industry ranges.

• Wall cladding: about 10 to 20 mm
• Interior flooring tiles: about 10 to 20 mm
• Countertop slabs: about 18 to 30 mm
• Pedestrian outdoor paving: about 20 to 30 mm
• Light vehicle areas: about 40 to 60 mm paving, or cobbles from about 50 mm
• Heavy vehicle areas: thicker cobbles or paving, about 80 mm and above, on an engineered base

Sealing and Maintenance by Stone Type

Good care keeps natural stone looking its best for decades. Share these basics with your customers.

• Granite: low maintenance. Clean with mild pH-neutral soap. Seal lighter colours periodically if water darkens the surface.
• Marble: wipe spills quickly, especially acidic ones. Use only pH-neutral cleaners. Seal to resist staining, though sealing does not stop acid etching.
• Sandstone: apply a penetrating sealer after installation. Clean with a soft brush and water. Avoid acid-based cleaners.
• Limestone: seal after installation and reseal as needed. Clean with pH-neutral products only.
• Cobbles: brush and wash regularly, refill joints when they wash out, and check for any loose blocks after heavy rain.
• Pebbles: rinse occasionally, top up worn areas and use a weed membrane beneath garden installations.

How Wholesalers and Distributors Can Build a Balanced Stone Range

A balanced stock helps you say yes to more projects without tying up too much capital. Most successful distributors in island markets build their range around a few principles.

• Cover every application: keep at least one option for countertops, interior floors, pool areas, driveways and landscaping.
• Stock fast movers deep: neutral granites, light sandstone paving and popular pebble colours usually turn over fastest.
• Offer finishes, not just colours: having the same stone in polished and flamed versions lets you serve both interior and exterior jobs.
• Check consistency: natural stone varies between lots, so keep samples and batch details for repeat orders on large projects.
• Know your technical data: water absorption, density and slip ratings help you win architect and hotel projects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Natural Stone