Cat's Eye Granite is a unique and visually captivating natural stone that is quarried in India. It is renowned for its distinct chatoyant effect, which resembles the optical phenomenon known as the "cat's eye." Here's a description of Cat's Eye Granite:
Appearance:
Cat's Eye Granite features a predominantly dark background color, ranging from black to deep gray or greenish-gray. What sets this granite apart is the presence of reflective fibrous inclusions that create a chatoyant effect resembling a cat's eye. These inclusions often appear as parallel lines or bands that reflect light, giving the stone a mesmerizing and dynamic look.
Chatoyant Effect:
The chatoyant effect in Cat's Eye Granite is caused by the presence of fibers, typically composed of minerals such as rutile or actinolite, within the stone. When the light interacts with these fibers, it creates a shimmering effect reminiscent of the eye of a cat. This unique optical feature adds depth and intrigue to the granite's appearance.
Colors and Patterns:
While Cat's Eye Granite has a dark base color, it can vary in shades of black, gray, or greenish-gray. The fibrous inclusions, often appearing in parallel lines or bands, exhibit a contrasting color, usually ranging from golden yellow to green or even brown. These lines or bands are responsible for the distinctive cat's eye effect.
Durability:
Cat's Eye Granite, like other granite varieties, is known for its durability and strength. It is highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Its robust nature ensures that it can withstand the demands of daily use and maintain its beauty over time.
Applications:
Cat's Eye Granite is commonly used in a variety of applications, particularly in interior design and architectural projects. It is popularly utilized for countertops, flooring, wall cladding, backsplashes, and vanity tops. Its unique chatoyant effect adds a touch of sophistication and intrigue to any space.
Interior Design:
Cat's Eye Granite creates a dramatic and luxurious ambiance in interior spaces. The dark background color, coupled with the shimmering cat's eye effect, makes it an excellent choice for adding depth and visual interest to both contemporary and traditional design styles. It can be used as a statement piece or incorporated into a broader color scheme to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Origin and Availability:
Cat's Eye Granite is primarily quarried in India, which is known for its rich and diverse natural stone resources. India has a long history of granite production, and Cat's Eye Granite is one of the notable varieties from the region. It is exported worldwide, ensuring its availability to customers and designers globally.
When considering Cat's Eye Granite for a project, it is advisable to view and select specific slabs in person. Due to the natural variations in color and the chatoyant effect, each slab will possess a unique appearance. This allows for customization and ensures that the chosen slabs align with the desired aesthetic and project requirements.
Technical Information Value ASTM/ INDIAN Standards
Water absorption, % by weight 0.15 C-97
Density (Bulk specific gravity) 2.65 C-97
Modulus of rupture, N/ mm2 C-99
Dry 11
Wet 15
Compressive Strength N/ mm2
Dry 117 C-170
Wet 100
India 
