Steel grey granite is amongst the most widely used granites in Pune. Owing to its affordability and a neutral tone that complements almost every design, it has been a common pick among Pune architects and real estate developers. From staircase to kitchen counter slabs, steel grey granite has become a default material across most of Pune’s development projects.

But is it worth using it extensively?

In this article, we examine why Steel Grey Granite has become overused in Pune’s construction industry and whether it truly offers long-term value. We analyse its availability, affordability, and durability while highlighting hidden drawbacks such as defects, poor polishing quality, and lack of exclusivity.

Properties of Steel Grey Granite

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	Grey-coloured base exhibiting a uniformly speckled pattern in black colour.
Thickness	Typically 18mm, but can be availed as per requirement.
Durability	Scratch-proof, resistant to weathering, heat, and stains.
Application	A popular choice for kitchen countertops, interior flooring, landscape paving, feature walls, etc.
Cost	INR 90 per sq. ft.

Why is Steel Grey Granite Overused in Pune?

Let’s understand the top factors making steel grey granite one of the most overused granites in Pune.

Easy Availability

Steel grey granite is one of the most easily available granites in the Pune market. As it originates from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and other parts of Southern India, it is comparatively easier to procure.

Owing to the close proximity of Pune to the origin, this granite is extensively available with most of the stone suppliers.

Durability

Like most of the granites, steel grey granite is extremely durable when it comes to scratch resistance, resistance to weathering, heat, and stains. The densely packed structure makes it ideal for applications in high-traffic areas.

However, what makes it stand out is the dark tone. Owing to its colour and natural speckled pattern, this granite effortlessly conceals cracks or defects.

Affordability

One of the top reasons for its overuse is its affordable price. The ease of procurement and availability in the local market make it one of the most budget-friendly granites.

Versatility

The neutral grey tone of this granite makes it a versatile choice. It can easily be paired with warm and cool tones, complementing both modern and traditional designs.

Furthermore, the wide range of finishes enables multiple applications in a single project.

Steel Grey Granite Multiple Applications

Top Reasons to Not Pick Steel Grey Granite

1. Hidden Defects

One of the top reasons why steel grey granite shouldn’t be used is the defects. The majority of the grey granite in the market is defective. The dark colour and densely patterned surface of the granite excellently conceals the defects.

However, most of the slabs exhibit cracks, patches, and chipping on the surface. The defects may lead to structural inconsistencies in the future. Furthermore, considering Vastu into the picture, the application of defective material isn’t considered good.

Rather than risking the structural integrity with defective steel grey granite, it’s better to opt for better and more resilient alternatives.

2. ‘Common’ Look

Whether you’re looking at an apartment worth INR 50 lakh or an apartment priced INR 2 crores, steel grey granite can commonly be found in both properties. Owing to the affordability and availability, it has become one of the default choices of granite for Pune’s developers.

Eventually, the excessive usage has minimised the ability of the material to stand out or make a visual impact. And often regarded as a ‘budgeted’ stone, the application of steel grey granite in high-end properties fails to hint at the exclusivity factor.

3. Defect-Free Alternatives

There are several other alternatives for steel grey granite. For example, granite varieties like Adhunik Grey, Rajasthan Black, Kashmir White Granite, etc., offer better visual appeal, enhanced durability due to defect-free surfaces, and similar or lower pricing.

Replacing the application of steel grey granite with other durable options helps enhance the value of the property while maintaining the aesthetics and functionality.

4. Poor Polishing Quality

Poor Polishing Quality Steel Grey Granite

Steel grey granite is often finished using low-quality polish. While it surely suits the pockets in the initial phase, this approach eventually turns expensive. The polish loses its shine faster, demanding re-polishing and high maintenance.

Rather than opting for this grey granite variety, you can consider opting for alternatives with high-quality and lasting polish.

Alternatives to Steel Grey Granite

1. Black Galaxy Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A premium look with a deep black base featuring silver and golden speckles, resembling a galaxy.
Price	INR 177 per sq. ft.
Durability	Resistant to heat, weathering, and scratches.
Application	Countertops, decorative walls, and flooring, and to impart timelessness to a space.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	7/10

2. Kashmir White Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A soft greyish-white base featuring diagonal veining in black and burgundy colours.
Price	INR 145 per sq. ft.
Durability	Exhibits moderate hardness and is resistant to heat. However, has to be sealed for stain resistance.
Application	Patio, walkways, vanity tops, flooring, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	2/10

3. Adhunik Grey Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A stylish grey base with tiny speckles in black and white colours.
Price	INR 125 per sq. ft.
Durability	Highly durable with excellent scratch resistance.
Application	Flooring, kitchen countertops, modern, and classical interior designs.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	8/10

4. Black Ziano Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	Dark-toned granite featuring a textured surface with crystalline speckles in charcoal and silver colours.
Price	INR 130 per sq. ft.
Durability	The hard and dense structure is exceptionally durable.
Application	Performs well as flooring in high-traffic areas, worktops, staircases, wall cladding, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	7/10

5. Mint Green Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A light green base featuring black and grey speckles.
Price	INR 120 per sq. ft.
Durability	Highly resistant to wear and tear.
Application	Outdoor landscaping, bathroom vanities, tabletops, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	7/10

6. Ocean Grey Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A soft grey base featuring speckles and wavy veining in dark and light grey.
Price	INR 145 per sq. ft.
Durability	Highly durable owing to scratch resistance and resistance to weathering.
Application	Outdoor paving, fireplace surrounds, wall cladding, flooring, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	8/10

7. Viscon White Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A white base featuring a fluid-like veining pattern in the hues of grey and black.
Price	INR 140 per sq. ft.
Durability	Excellent strength and resistance to weathering.
Application	Outdoor kitchen countertops, vanity tops, feature walls, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	5/10

8. Vizag Blue Granite

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A stunning granite in a blue and black base featuring wavy mineral streaks.
Price	INR 145 per sq. ft.
Durability	Heat, scratch, and stain resistant.
Application	Bathroom vanity tops, tabletops, staircase, landscaping, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	7/10

9. Moon White Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	A greyish-white base featuring swirling veins in cream and light grey, along with burgundy speckles.
Price	INR 150 per sq. ft.
Durability	Durable to heat and scratches; however, annual sealing is recommended for longevity.
Application	Flooring, cladding, and countertops in both modern and classical interiors.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	3/10

10. Kuppam Green Granite

Key Attributes

Origin	South India
Visual Appearance	Exhibits a mix of green, white, and grey tones with a veining pattern resembling waves.
Price	INR 120 per sq. ft.
Durability	Heat and scratch resistant.
Application	Fireplace surrounds, kitchen countertopsm bathroom vanity, staircase, etc.
Resemblance to Steel Grey Granite	5/10

Choose Your Granite Smartly

When it comes to the selection of granite, budget shouldn’t be the only consideration. Rather, the decision must be backed by a thorough market research and a seasoned expert’s pro-tips.

It’s the lack of awareness that has led to the saturated use of steel grey granite in diverse projects across Pune. While affordability offers the advantage of achieving sophistication at a comparatively lower price, the defective slabs depreciate the long-term value of the property.

Make a smart choice by picking highly durable, aesthetic, and budget-friendly alternatives for steel grey granite. To explore more varieties of granites, check Oswal Granite or Petros® Stone.

Key Takeaways

Steel Grey Granite is widely used in Pune mainly due to affordability, availability, and versatility.
The dark, speckled surface often hides cracks, patches, and structural defects.
Overuse has reduced its premium appeal, especially in high-end real estate projects.
Low-quality polishing in many slabs leads to faster dullness and higher maintenance costs.
Several granite alternatives offer better aesthetics, durability, and long-term property value.