When planning to remodel a kitchen or a bathroom, most people think immediately of granite or marble countertops. A less common equally appealing option would be gemstone. Gemstone is not the same as with jewelry, however the basic concept is similar. Using materials that are not commonplace will enhance the beauty and the luxurious feel of a renovation.

Gemstones that are durable and relatively easy to find are types such as onyx, mother of pearl, and quartzite. Onyx is a semi-precious stone and is growing steadily in popularity due to its sleek style. Onyx does not only come in the black, but ranges in color options from white to greens. Onyx can be a fairly soft stone, and would need to be properly sealed to prevent scratches or damage. Mother of pearl is a mixture of white, pink and bluish hues swirled together. Mother of pearl would be most commonly used for a bathroom countertop, but could also be used as accents for various other projects. Quartzite is a very dense stone and would hold up against heat and pressure with ease. The color variations of quartzite are virtually endless and using it would easily revamp any room. Quartzite has similar qualities to crystal and appears to shine and shimmer under most lighting styles, adding another aspect of glamour to the home.

Upgrading bathrooms and kitchens can add value and beauty to one’s home. By modernizing certain areas, the home will never feel as though it is outdated. Gemstone countertops and accents add appeal and uniqueness to areas of the home that would otherwise feel commonplace. To be sure the gemstone is of the highest available quality, a builder proficient in design aspects should be sought out. The builder should be reliable and recommended by companies like the Marble Institute of America and the Better Business Bureau to insure the job will go smoothly.