Lemon Test – The lemon test is to determine the ability of your granite to resist etching. Follow the steps below:

• Place a wedge of lemon or lime, cut side down, on the sample overnight.
• Wipe the sample in the morning and hold it at an angle to the light.
• Check for a rough spot where the lemon was placed.
• Etching will appear dull and rough.

Etches normally occur where calcium or calcite is present in the make-up of the stone. If your sample reacts to the lemon wedge, we DO NOT recommend this for your kitchen.

Water Absorption Test – Test the suitability of your granite to resist water absorption. The tighter the grain the less absorption.

Follow these steps:

• Place a few small drops of water on the sample.
• Let stand for about 15 minutes.
• Wipe excess water.

If the granite sample absorbed the water as soon as you put it on, DO NOT use this granite. A quality sealer would help prevent some absorption but would require constant maintenance.

If there is still a bit of water left on the surface, it will be suitable for your kitchen. We recommend a sealer for all granite.