Sometimes our outdoor spaces may seem a little neglected. They may be pruned and watered but perhaps a little bare otherwise. Have you ever thought you'd like to add a touch of art to your garden, creating a terrace-like space in your backyard? Or would you like to improve the curbside appeal of your home? Flowers and shrubs certainly help, but a little crafted stone can improve your home's value and be appreciated by you for years. So what stones are available for outside use and how can you use them? Let's look at some of the options available today.

What Stones Can You Use Outside?

Remember that stone originates outdoors so it's not as delicate as it may look once polished and perfected. Below are a few stones often used in the outdoors.

Granite

Granite is just as durable and attractive outside as it is inside. You may be familiar with how well it holds up in a busy kitchen or bathroom. But it's just as strong in an outside setting. So how could you add granite?

Granite medallions are an attractive outdoor art piece, though they work equally well indoors. Medallions are essentially mosaics created from larger pieces of cut stone that's fitted together to create a design or image. It's assembled and installed as one large tile. This makes it an easy do-it-yourself project. Often, various colors of granite are used in the design so it may add a pop of color to a garden pathway or wall. The flecks of color will add sparkle and shine and look as delicate as any flower. But it won't require any fuss and the weather won't harm granite in the least.

Marble

You'll probably agree that marble gives a very different impression from granite. It also endures inside and out but is softer, maybe reminding you of Grecian structures or some of the mansions of the Gilded Age. Either way, it's a soft beauty but don't let its exterior fool you. Marble is also tough. How can marble be used outside?

One way is with a marble mosaic. Similar to a granite medallion, it's a design or pattern made from tiny pieces of various colors of marble. Like a granite medallion, a marble mosaic comes to you as one large piece so it's also easy to install. You could install just one as a focal point on a pathway through the garden or to the house. Or install more than one on a wall for the full mosaic effect. Whatever you choose, it's a delightful and fun use of marble.

Onyx

Another tough stone but a little less employed, onyx actually has just as many functions as granite and marble. Just like those stones, onyx has its own unique flare and can be just as stunning. How is it useful?

One outdoor use for onyx is the water fountain. It may not seem very functional but it's pleasant and a pretty addition to any outdoor space. Onyx water fountains will blend but still be noticeable within a garden. One may make a nice centerpiece in a backyard or enhance the front walkway. Whatever spot you prefer, you'll find this unique addition a favorite one.

Now you have three different stones and how they can be used outside. Enhance the value and attractiveness of your outside world with an element that belongs there. Whether it's a granite medallion, marble mosaic, or onyx water fountain, it will please your eyes, and possibly your ears, for as long as you live there.