Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that is derived from sediments of clay and fine silt. The action of intense heat and pressure changes the original clay into new minerals such as mica, chlorite, and quartz. These natural processes transform the clay into slate. Slates can usually vary in composition, structure, and durability due to the alteration of the minerals being rather inconsistent. This natural process of slate formation has provided this material with certain properties that help to make slate an excellent choice as a kitchen countertop material. It is a natural material that is known for strength and durability, like that found in granite or marble.
Slate can provide an elegance and sophistication to kitchen countertops. Slate is one natural material that has both the strength and durability of granite and marble but without the constant maintenance and care these other surfaces require.
Many people might associate slate as just a material for roofing and outdoor walkways, however slate can be an excellent material for use in kitchen countertops, primarily because slate has a low absorption rate. What this means is that slate kitchen countertops are more stain resistant and less likely to provide a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria.
Many kitchen design professionals regard slate as an even better natural stone surface that marble or granite, since slate kitchen countertops have a low porosity so that this surface requires no sealing. Most slate countertops are considered to be stain-free. Slate countertops look great. So you can see that by selecting slate for kitchen countertops, you are getting a material that has the feel and natural beauty of a natural stone.
While most slate can be darker stone, it is also available in shades of red, green, blue, and purple.
Slate is a dense, sedimentary rock formed over thousands of years that consists of clay and volcanic ash, becoming dense sheets of crystalline mica. A fine-grained natural stone, slate provides a smooth, sleek appearance. Slate is usually available in earthy tones such as greys, reds, and greens. Slate is considered to be a softer stone than granite. Design and application considerations need to be taken into consideration when it comes to providing surfaces with proper application.
Slate countertops are low maintenance and can be kept clean with any household cleaner. To keep slate kitchen countertops protected the use of mineral oil is usually recommended.
Among the characteristics of slate kitchen countertops are that they are impervious to stains, heat, water etc. Slate kitchen countertops are elegant and can be cleaned very easily. They should polished regularly to maintain the shine of the natural stone. Slate kitchen countertops are great for cutting vegetables, preparing, and serving the food.
Slate kitchen countertops can be honed to a smooth, matte (that is, not shiny) finish. This honing process produces a warm, durable surface that is long lasting, strong, simplistic, and natural. Slate kitchen countertops can also be oiled to create a glossier look.
Slate kitchen countertops are available in different shapes, colors and sizes that can go well with some many kitchen design styles.
Looking for a design that's chic and at the same time unconventional? Try your luck at animal jewelry. Far from being tacky or inelegant, animal designs are actually rather distinctive. Finely crafted jewelry with animal motifs lends a mysterious air to the person who wears them.
Graceful jewelry patterns can be achieved with animal motifs. Dolphins, snakes, swans, and other beautiful beings of nature depict naked beauty and mysticism, and including images of them in jewelry inspires this "look." Moreover, the carnal appeal of wearing nature-themed jewelry should not be bypassed; sporting nature-themed accessories speaks of someone who is in tune with an "inner animal." If we're going to talk sex appeal -- well, animal jewelry may just be an understated way to achieve it!
Animal jewelry is also a great way of encouraging environmental awareness and love of nature -- even among children. A child who has a favorite pet may appreciate having animal jewelry to remind him or her of that pet. In fact, if the pet were domesticated enough to sport a little jewelry as well -- like a cat or a dog -- it might be great if master and pet could have matching pieces! Like a pendant for the collar for Poochie, which could also be worn as a bracelet charm for Nancy.
In fact, not only children would appreciate jewelry that would remind them of favorite pets. If one had a favorite animal, a pet, a totem spirit or just an animal with whom s/he identifies with, a piece of charm jewelry would be a great gift. An accessory that reminds one of a pleasant thought is always something that makes one glow.
The inner strength one derives from inspiring motifs is one of the best things about animal jewelry; when a person is calmed or energized by the sight of a familiar animal, it affects one's mood and the way one looks at things. In fact, Native American tradition believes that animals can give you strength and guidance. Jewelry symbolizing these animals may serve as a reminder for someone who desires to be stronger in one particular aspect. For example: the dragonfly symbolizes illusion, the deer symbolizes gentleness, the bear means power, and so forth.
A person may select his/her ensemble based on his/her philosophies, or simply the feelings of the moment. A person who wishes to give another the gift of animal jewelry may consider which particular animal/s the recipient brings to mind. This requires a personal touch, and this in itself makes the act of selecting animal jewelry a cherished moment indeed!
Both James Mahoney & Sam Serio are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.