2026 Stone of the Year: Virginia Black

OBERLIN, Ohio – The 2026 Stone of the Year from the Natural Stone Institute is an All-American: Virginia Black granite from Gramazini.

Quarried in its namesake state, Virginia Black stands out with imposing aesthetics and high technical performance. With a deep black tone and homogeneous texture, the material conveys sophistication, modernity, and timeless appeal, making it a striking choice for high-end architectural projects.

Renowned for its high resistance, durability, and stability, Virginia Black is suitable for both interior and exterior applications, including flooring, wall cladding, countertops, and façades. Its mineral composition ensures excellent performance even in high-traffic areas, along with long-term ease of maintenance.

As part of the Gramazini portfolio, Virginia Black undergoes rigorous selection and processing standards, ensuring consistent quality and uniformity. Versatile and elegant, the material enhances a wide range of design styles—from contemporary to classic—adding character and aesthetic value to the most demanding environments.