Black Galaxy Granite, first discovered in the 1980s in Andhra Pradesh, India, has since become one of the most sought-after natural stones worldwide. Its iconic look features a deep black base with stunning golden or silver flecks, creating a striking “galaxy” effect that adds elegance to a range of applications, from kitchen countertops to expansive flooring. Here’s an in-depth guide to its unique properties, quality grades, and practical tips for selecting, using, and maintaining this exquisite granite. 
The Origin and History of Black Galaxy Granite
The black galaxy granite is quarried in the Chimakurthy area of Andhra Pradesh, where the distinct Norite/Gabbro composition provides the stone’s unique flecked appearance. These golden “galaxy” flecks are a result of bronzite, a mineral with metallic qualities.
Efforts to promote this granite began in 1983 when Mr. K. Bala Krishna Reddy marketed it as “SHOBHA.” Success was limited until the quarry lease transferred ownership, prompting a rebranding to “Galaxy Granite” in 1987. This new approach led to high demand globally. The main quarrying sites are in the villages of Chimakurthy, R.L. Puram, Budawada, and Devarapalem along the Ongole–Nandyala State Highway, spanning over 452 hectares.
Known by many names, including, including Chimakurthy Galaxy Granite, Black Ametist, Black Amethyst, Black and Gold, GA902, Galaxi Black, Galaxy Black, Galaxy Gold, Galaxy Star, Nero Galaxy, Star Galaxi, Black Galaxy, Galaxy Black Granite, Star Gallaxy, and WG203, Black Galaxy granite is a popular and sought-after material both domestically and internationally.
Source of Information: Prakasam District Administration, Government of Andra Pradesh, India
Attributes and Characteristics of Galaxy Granite
Galaxy Granite, is a striking stone composed of Norite/Gabbro rock with distinctive golden-colored Bronzite specks, lending it the “galaxy” effect. Originating from the Chimakurthy Anorthosite-Gabbro plutonic complex in Andhra Pradesh, this granite showcases igneous qualities embedded in the ancient Sargurs and Eastern Ghats mobile belt, which dates back to the Archean era. The stone generally has a rich black base but may also exhibit slight green or white undertones.
- Slight Greenish/Black Shading
- White undertones.
Galaxy Granite is available in various grain sizes
- Large-grained,
- Medium-grained, and
- Small-grained materials, each impacting the stone’s overall appearance.
with larger grains being particularly rare and valued. Its vibrant bronzite flecks significantly impact the granite’s overall appeal, quality, and price.
Black galaxy granite is durable material requires minimal upkeep, though caution is advised in high-traffic areas where dust or debris could scratch the surface. Despite its hardness, Galaxy Granite can be brittle around edges, making careful handling essential for maintaining its longevity and appearance.
READ | Indian Black Granite: 7 Popular Types And Its Common Uses
Factors Determining the Quality of Star Galaxy
The quality, appeal, and price of Star Galaxy granite, also known as Black Galaxy Granite, are determined by several key factors:
Veins (Lines): Black Galaxy Granite quality is categorized based on the presence of lines. Grade A is free of lines, Grade B has minor black lines, Grade C includes more than two black lines, and Grade D may show multiple black and white lines. The fewer the lines, the higher the quality and cost.
Fleck (Galaxy) Size: The size of the bronzite flecks, known as “galaxy,” greatly impacts the stone’s appeal. Larger flecks are rare and command a higher price, contributing to the “popcorn galaxy” look in premium slabs.
Galaxy Distribution: A uniform spread of the bronzite flecks enhances the granite’s aesthetic appeal. Evenly distributed flecks are particularly valued in higher grades.
READ | 10 Most Popular Granite Colors
Quality Grades of Black Galaxy Granite
Black Galaxy Granite is classified into several quality grades based on above three key aspects: the presence of lines (veins), fleck size, and fleck distribution. Here’s a breakdown:
- Premium and Premium+ Grades: Typically used in high-end projects, these slabs have larger and evenly distributed flecks with few to no lines. Known as “popcorn galaxy” due to the large, consistent bronzite grains, these grades offer unparalleled clarity and uniformity.
- Semi-Premium: Slightly lower in grade, semi-premium slabs may have faint “invisible” black lines that become nearly unnoticeable once polished, making them a popular choice.
- Standard Quality: Favored for widespread use, this grade is suitable for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding, often containing one or two visible black lines and slight variations in fleck distribution.
- Commercial Quality: Designed for large-scale projects, this cost-effective grade may have multiple lines and less uniform flecking, making it ideal for applications where affordability is key without compromising visual appeal.
Choosing the Right Black Galaxy Granite
When selecting Black Galaxy, it’s essential to assess the fleck size, distribution, and quality of the slab. Larger, uniform flecks generally come with a higher price tag and lend a more premium look. If possible, view slabs in person to verify quality, and work with reputable suppliers who understand the nuances of Black Galaxy’s grading. Suppliers like Stone Galleria in India offer a range of options and can help you find the right grade for your budget and project requirements.
READ | Indian Granite Exporter: How to Find the Right One?
Quarries of Black Galaxy Granite
The Black Galaxy Granite quarries in Chimakurthy, Andhra Pradesh, play a pivotal role in the global granite industry. As of 2024, there are 135 quarry leases for this unique granite, covering an expansive 452.784 hectares. These leases are positioned along a key transport route, the Ongole–Nandyala State Highway, from the 23rd to the 26th-kilometre markers, making logistics efficient for transporting materials to domestic and international markets.
The quarries in Chimakurthy are renowned not only for the quality of Black Galaxy Granite but also for their modern, sustainable mining practices. Today’s quarry leaseholders employ advanced technology to reduce environmental impact—addressing concerns such as noise, dust, and accident prevention. This sustainable approach enhances safety and promotes the responsible extraction of resources.
Surrounding this thriving quarry industry, the local region supports over 600 cutting and polishing units across Chimakurthy, S.N.Padu, Ongole, and Maddipadu Mandals. These units work collaboratively to produce high-quality slabs and tiles, catering to both domestic and global demand for Black Galaxy Granite, widely valued for its durability and distinctive golden specks. This infrastructure also contributes significantly to the local economy, providing employment and fostering growth in the granite industry.
Black Galaxy Granite: Slab Sizes, Tile Dimensions, and Surface Finishes
The Black Galaxy Granite is offered in various slab sizes to cater to a range of applications and design preferences. These sizes include:
Standard Slab – Available in 2 cm and 3 cm thicknesses
Slab Sizes:
- Jumbo Gangsaw Slabs – Sizes of 3000 mm x 2000 mm and above.
- Large Gangsaw Slabs – Sizes of 2800 mm x 1800 mm and above.
- Medium Gangsaw Slabs – Sizes of 2800 mm x 1400 mm and above.
- Mini Gangsaw Slabs – Sizes of 2200 mm x 1200 mm and above.
- Vertical Cutter Slabs – Sizes starting from 2200 mm in length, with widths ranging from 600 to 900+ mm.
Tiles – The Black Galaxy Granite tiles come in standard sizes:
- 305 x 305 mm, 610 x 305 mm, 400 x 400 mm, and 457 x 457 mm, with thicknesses ranging from 10 to 18 mm. Custom size & thickness options are available upon request.
Memorial/Monumental Slabs – Thickness customization is possible from 50 mm up to 200 mm to meet specific project requirements.
Surface Finish Options:
- Preferred Finish: High-gloss polish for a striking appearance.
- Alternative Finishes: Honed, leather/satin, river-washed/antique, thermal/flamed, brushed, and sandblast finishes. Notably, these slabs come with natural colors, without the need for any color enhancers.
These variations make Black Galaxy Granite adaptable for diverse projects, from luxurious interiors to sturdy outdoor applications, maintaining both durability and aesthetic appeal.
READ | Different Granite Finishes: Which is best for you?
Applications of Star Galaxy
The versatility of Black Galaxy Granite shines in various architectural uses:
- Countertops: Its dense, polished finish resists staining and provides a luxurious look, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Flooring and Wall Cladding: Ideal for both large commercial spaces and upscale residences, its striking appearance enhances any room’s elegance.
- Decorative Elements: Often used in staircases, fireplaces, and even outdoor paving, it can add sophisticated accents to any design.
Durability and Maintenance
Black Galaxy Granite is exceptionally durable, with a hardness rating of about 4.5 on the Mohs scale. Its dense composition makes it highly resistant to daily wear, heat, and moderate impact, though edges and corners require caution against hard strikes. Unlike other stones, it doesn’t need sealing due to its density and low absorption rate. Cleaning typically requires only warm, soapy water, with occasional care to prevent acidic spills that could dull the surface.
Comparing Galaxy Granite to Alternative Granite
When comparing Black Galaxy Granite to other granite options, it’s important to consider appearance, durability, maintenance, finishes, price, and application suitability. These factors will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your preferences and project requirements.
- Black Galaxy Granite is truly unique in its appearance, featuring a striking black background decorated with stunning metallic flecks, making it different from other types of granite.
- The distinctive pattern of Black Galaxy Granite, with its sparkling broncite flecks, adds a touch of luxury to any space.
- A noteworthy characteristic is its special exclusion from the usual sealing requirements, which is quite uncommon for granites. This makes maintenance easier and adds to its overall appeal.
Conclusion
Black Galaxy Granite is truly a gem in the world of natural stone. Its luxurious appearance, resilience, and minimal maintenance make it a timeless choice for both residential and commercial applications. While more expensive than other granite types, its aesthetic and practical benefits make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their space.
If you’re considering Black Galaxy Granite for your project, reach out to Stone Galleria, a trusted supplier in India.
READ |
Understanding the Price of Granite Per Square FootContact Us Now for the Best Deals on Black Galaxy Granite!
When selecting the perfect granite for your project, Black Galaxy Granite stands out for its luxurious appeal, featuring a deep black base with specks of gold or white that exude elegance. However, if you’re exploring other options, you might also want to consider P White Granite for its light colour and salt and pepper classic look, or Alaska White Granite for its white tones and one of its kind slabs. Another excellent option is Fantasy Brown Granite, known for its unique blend of colors and textures.
For those interested in, darker shades, Markino Black Granite could be the ideal choice with its striking appearance, while Lakha Red Granite offers a bold, vibrant tone with its intense scarlet color. Each of these granites has distinct features and advantages, making them suitable for a variety of design projects.
Discover More About These Popular Indian Granite Options:
- P White Granite: Learn why this Budget friendly versatile granite is a timeless choice
- Alaska White Granite: Explore its features and applications
- Fantasy Brown Granite: Is Fantasy Brown a granite, marble, quartzite, or dolomite?
- Markino Black Granite: Learn how its striking appearance can enhance your space
- Lakha Red Granite: Find out everything you need to know about this bold scarlet Indian granite
