When it comes to choosing the right marble for your home or office, there are many options to consider. Two of the most popular choices are Volakas marble and Carrara marble. While both of these types of marble have their own unique qualities, they also have several similarities. In this blog post, we will compare Volakas marble and Carrara marble, so you can make an informed decision on which type of marble is right for your space.
Volakas Marble
Definition and Origin
Volakas marble is a natural stone that originates from Greece. It is a type of white marble with gray veining, which gives it a distinct appearance. The name “Volakas” comes from the village of Volakas in the Drama region of Greece, where the marble is quarried.
Appearance and Characteristics
Volakas marble has a white background with varying degrees of gray veining. The veining can range from light gray to dark gray and can be thick or thin. The overall appearance of Volakas marble is elegant and sophisticated, making it a popular choice for high-end interior design projects.
Advantages
- Beautiful appearance: The gray veining on the white background gives Volakas marble a unique and stunning appearance that can elevate any space.
- Durability: Volakas marble is a strong and durable stone that can withstand heavy use and foot traffic.
- Availability: Volakas marble is widely available and can be sourced from several quarries in Greece.
- Cost-effective: Volakas marble is generally less expensive than other types of white marble, making it a cost-effective option.
Disadvantages
- Susceptible to etching and staining: Like all marble, Volakas marble is susceptible to etching and staining from acidic substances.
- Can be challenging to maintain: Keeping Volakas marble clean and free of stains and etching requires regular maintenance and sealing.
Common Uses
Volakas marble is commonly used for flooring, countertops, wall cladding, and decorative elements such as fireplace surrounds and staircases.
Carrara Marble
Definition and Origin
Carrara marble is a natural stone that originates from the Carrara region of Italy. It is a type of white marble with gray veining, similar to Volakas marble. Carrara marble has been used in sculpture and architecture for centuries, and it is renowned for its beauty and quality.
Appearance and Characteristics
Carrara marble has a white background with fine, delicate gray veining. The veining is often described as feathery or wispy, and it gives the marble a soft and elegant appearance. Carrara marble is highly sought after for its beautiful and timeless look.
Advantages
- Beautiful appearance: Carrara marble is highly regarded for its beautiful and classic look, making it a popular choice for high-end interior design projects.
- Durability: Carrara marble is a strong and durable stone that can withstand heavy use and foot traffic.
- Availability: Carrara marble is widely available and can be sourced from several quarries in Italy.
- Versatility: Carrara marble can be used in a variety of applications and can complement a wide range of design styles.
Disadvantages
- Susceptible to etching and staining: Like all marble, Carrara marble is susceptible to etching and staining from acidic substances.
- Can be challenging to maintain: Keeping Carrara marble clean and free of stains and etching requires regular maintenance and sealing.
- Cost: Carrara marble is generally more expensive than other types of white marble.
Common Uses
Carrara marble is commonly used for flooring, countertops, wall cladding, and decorative elements such as fireplace surrounds and staircases. It is also commonly used in sculptures and monuments.
Differences between Volakas Marble and Carrara Marble
Color and Pattern
Volakas marble has a white background with gray veining that can range from light to dark. In contrast, Carrara marble also has a white background with gray veining, but the veining is typically finer and more delicate than Volakas marble. Carrara marble is known for its feathery or wispy veining, while Volakas marble has thicker and bolder veining.
Cost
Volakas marble is generally less expensive than Carrara marble, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget. However, Carrara marble is considered a high-end material and is more expensive due to its rarity and the high demand for it in the design industry.
Durability and Maintenance
Both Volakas marble and Carrara marble are strong and durable materials that can withstand heavy use and foot traffic. However, they are both susceptible to etching and staining from acidic substances, and regular maintenance is required to keep them looking their best. The maintenance required for both types of marble is similar and includes regular cleaning, sealing, and avoiding acidic substances.
Availability
Volakas marble is widely available and can be sourced from several quarries in Greece, while Carrara marble is primarily quarried in Italy. While both types of marble are readily available, Carrara marble is considered more exclusive due to its rarity.
Design Options
Both Volakas marble and Carrara marble offer a wide range of design options. They can be used in a variety of applications and complement a wide range of design styles. However, Volakas marble’s bolder veining and Carrara marble’s delicate veining lend themselves to different design styles. Volakas marble is better suited for contemporary or modern designs, while Carrara marble is better suited for traditional or classic designs.
Conclusion
Volakas marble and Carrara marble are both beautiful and durable materials that can elevate any space. While they have many similarities, they also have some significant differences that may influence your decision on which type of marble to choose. If you are looking for a cost-effective option with bold veining, Volakas marble may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a high-end material with delicate veining, Carrara marble may be the better option. Regardless of which type of marble you choose, regular maintenance is required to keep it looking its best.
