Emerald Pearl vs. Blue Pearl Absorption

by Jay
(Texas)

QUESTION:

I am debating between black pearl and blue pearl granite countertops. I see contradictory statements about sealing the above two granites.

What is the water absorption rate of these granite countertops? Which one is better?

ANSWER:

Either one will make an excellent countertop choice. Neither will be too problematic regarding staining.

To answer your specific question though, Blue Pearl is more dense with a water absorption rating of .05 - .15% which is essentially non-absorbent.

Anything below .2 will not absorb. Or at least it would take a very very long exposure to a liquid to absorb.

You won't have to seal Blue Pearl. Actually you couldn't even if you tried.

Emerald Pearl is rated at .15 - .35% so it's a bit more absorbent, but that is still a good rating and won't stain too easy.

You would simply need to water test for sealing granite countertops a sample of the exact slab you were considering to see if it needed a granite sealer or not.

But even if it did it's likely one coat of a good sealer like SenGuard or Stone Sentry Sealers would make it pretty bullet proof.

So, I wouldn't make my choice on absorption alone. There isn't enough of a difference in the rates. Yes, Blue Pearl won't absorb, but Emerald Pearl may not either depending on the slab and would become just as impervious with a coat of granite sealer if needed.

And sealing is easy enough.

Good Luck,
Ryan