Blue eyes granite is an increasingly a popular choice for homeowners, it has recently seen a remarkable increase in usage in kitchen countertops. It is sometimes referred to as, Labrador Blue, Reflect Blue, or Ten Mile Bay granite
This increase in popularity is undoubtedly because of the word getting around about its beauty, which comes from the unusual and unique look of its slabs. They are multi-coloured speckled with shades of light and dark grey, and more importantly blue, which gives it its curious name.
First discovered in 1991, it has been quarried in newfoundland, Canada ever since – and has been soaring in popularity year upon year.
Like many other types of granite it is formed by natural geological processes, which means it is far from uniform in it appearance. It is an igneous rock made from a combination of the minerals Pyroxene, Magnetite, and commonly Ilmentite.
(This does mean that anyone who is looking to use blues eyes for their countertops should personally inspect the slab before buying – to make sure that the pattern of the veining is to their liking.)
How Much Does Blue Eyes Granite Cost?
Due to the quarries where blue eyes mined being located in a arctic region of Canada (where blizzards and sub zero temperatures are not uncommon) the miners are only able to work 4 months every year. Which makes this particular type of granite quite rare comparatively speaking.
The complex mineral combinations that give this stone is incredible beauty are what also makes it almost impossible to find two slabs with remotely similar veining. As only about 2000 cubic meters of the stone is quarried every year you can be sure that your blue eyes will be totally unique – which only adds to this stone’s appeal.
This kitchen has a moden yet homely feel to it. The blue eyes contrasts with the white kitchen cabinets perfectly to create an outstanding effect.
While this is great if you want to have something different in your home that no one else will have – it is certainly going to cost you. To add to the confusion the more of the mineral pyroxene that the granite has (the stuff that makes blue eyes blue) the more expensive it will be.
Taking the variation of blue eyes granite prices into account – For a 3cm think slab of “average” blue eyes you can expect to pay around $70 per square foot, Around $60 per square foot if you are looking to buy a 2cm thick slab.
However prices can go as high as $90 per square foot (and above) for truly remarkable slabs of this amazing stone.
To get an idea of the range in quality (and therefore price) of blue eyes granite – just take a look at this amazing slab used as a countertop.
Expensive – but if you have the money to spare we think you will agree it is well worth it. We always recommend shopping around online to get your granite – most good stone merchants will have pictures of the exact slabs you will buy on their websites, allowing you to get the right balance between price and beauty.
Designing Around Your Worktops
While blue eyes granite is usually a stone which mixes different shades of grey with bright blue crystals, which can sometimes also lean a little purple, the stone can also have an almost mahogany colored background, which works perfectly with dark, wooden kitchen cabinets and furniture, to create a sophisticated décor.
Special variants aside, blue eyes is great for those looking to create a romantic, sophisticated kitchen, as blue is said to add a romantic touch to any room’s décor. However blue eyes looks mostly grey from afar, which allows it to be neutral, and thus work well with several layouts and color schemes, complementing light airy furniture just as well as it does a dark, sophisticated one.
It is commonly used to add a very welcome soft, feminine touch to a futuristic, steel based kitchen – which makes the decision a great compromise for any couple that has differing views on the style of their kitchen.
The striking effect of blue eyes granite works well with any type of kitchen cabinets. These natural wood cabinets are probably the least strking design choice possible – and look how awesome they look!
While this stone, isn’t cheap, you do get what you pay for – which is a fairly rare, unique and stunning granite. Despite its delicate appearance it is extremely durable and can withstand any damage it is likely to incur in the kitchen. It is stain proof and easy to clean, which makes it a top choice for a kitchen or bathroom counter – which are surfaces where a lot of staining can happen.
At the end of the day, blue eyes is a great choice for those who are looking to renovate their kitchens. It’s versatile, durable and beautiful, and most importantly stands the test of time. It will remain looking as exquisitely stunning after months of usage as it did when it was brand new – which is definitely something you want when shelling out for granite – as kitchen countertops can definitely let the whole appearance of a room down if they become stained or dirty.
Do you have any questions about blue eyes? Are you thinking of installing it in your home? Have you already installed it? Please leave a comment in the section below!
