Is “Ash Black” Granite the same as Rajasthan Black Granite?

Yes. Ash Black, R Black, Devgarh Black, etc., are all alternate trade names for Rajasthan Black Granite. They refer to the same general stone quarried in Rajasthan. Different vendors or regions might use different names, but essentially Ash Black is Rajasthan Black – characterized by the black base with grey-blue speckles. Always verify the appearance though, as some may label any local black stone as “Ash Black.”

Will Rajasthan Black Granite lose its colour or shine outdoors?

No – if you have a genuine, untreated slab, the color is natural and will not fade in sunlight or rain. The polish may very gradually dull over many years outside due to dust and weathering, but the stone can always be re-polished to restore shine if needed. The key is to ensure you got a slab that wasn’t dyed. If it was chemically darkened, that fake colour could fade with UV exposure. But the stone’s inherent color is UV-stable and essentially permanent. In terms of structural integrity, the granite handles outdoor conditions excellently – it won’t crack from heat or cold if installed correctly

How does R Black Granite compare to Absolute Black (South Indian) in quality?

Both are high-quality, durable granites. Absolute Black is more uniform in appearance (solid black) and often comes in larger slabs, and tends to be pricier. Rajasthan Black has the fine speckled pattern and is usually more affordable. Durability-wise, they are comparable – both are very hard and weather-resistant. If you prefer a pure black look and budget is no issue, Absolute Black is the gold standard. If you want a nearly black look at better value, R Black is a fantastic choice. Many people won’t notice much difference except on close inspection.

What thickness does R Black Granite come in?

The most common slab thicknesses are 2 cm (0.75″) and 3 cm (1.25″). Tiles are often about 1.6 cm thick. However, other thicknesses are available on request: some suppliers offer 1.6 cm, 5 cm, etc., and monuments can be even thicker. For example, 2 and 3 cm are standard for slabs, but you can get 4-6 cm thick stair treads or 8-10 cm thick blocks for special projects. Always specify your required thickness when ordering.

Is Rajasthan Black Granite suitable for outdoor paving and facades?

Yes, definitely. This granite is frequently used outdoors. It has very low water absorption and high strength, so it can withstand rain, sun, and freezing temperatures without issues. For paving (driveways, patios) and walkways, it provides a durable surface that doesn’t fade or crack easily. Just make sure to use a textured finish (flamed, etc.) for outdoor flooring to prevent it from being slippery when wet. On building facades, its dark polished panels can create a dramatic look and will hold up against weather. Proper installation (with expansion joints, etc.) is key, as with any stone.

What is the price of Rajasthan Black Granite per square foot?

The price of Rajasthan Black Granite in India typically ranges from ₹70 to ₹95 per square foot for standard 15-16 mm thick polished slabs. Rates vary depending on grade (commercial or premium), finish, and block quality.

Rajasthan Black Granite Price, Uses & Mines Guide

When we began putting together information on Rajasthan Black Granite, we were surprised—despite being one of the most searched granite types from India apart from P white granite, there’s hardly any detailed, reliable content available online. Especially surprising, given how widely it’s used across India and exported to many parts of the world.

That’s what prompted us to create this article. We didn’t just rely on online sources—we spoke to quarry owners, factory operators, and processing units across Rajasthan to understand the material firsthand. The result is this practical guide, covering everything from appearance and finishes to applications, slab sizes, and pricing.

We’ve tried to keep things simple, fact-based, and helpful. If you’re someone who works with granite or simply looking to understand what Rajasthan Black is all about, we hope this piece helps.

If you’ve worked with this granite or feel you can add something valuable to the discussion, feel free to reach out to us. We'd be happy to update and improve this guide.

What is Rajasthan Black Granite?

Rajasthan Black Granite (often simply called R Black or Ash Black Granite) is most popular black granite stone quarried in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its dark, classical appearance and excellent durability, making it a sought-after material for construction and décor. This granite features a deep black base colour generously speckled with tiny grey and dark blue mineral grains, giving it a consistent, subtly sparkling pattern.

The stone is sometimes marketed under village-specific names (e.g. Malkot Black, Chitamba Black, Devgarh Black) since different quarries in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan produce slight variations in texture and pattern. However, all these names refer to the same general type of Rajasthan Black Granite.

Rajasthan Black Granite isn’t just popular in India; it has a significant presence in international markets as well. It is one of the granites that put Rajasthan on the global stone map. Major importers of Rajasthan Black include countries in Europe (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, UK, etc.), Russia, Turkey, the Middle East, and North America (USA, Canada).

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Origin and Quarry Locations in Rajasthan

Rajasthan Black Granite is extracted from numerous quarries in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, India, particularly around the town of Deogarh (Devgarh). There are reportedly hundreds of quarries in this region, with two main mining clusters near the villages of Malkot and Chitamba. The material from Malkot is noted to have a darker, more uniform black appearance, while granite from Chitamba often exhibits the “flower” pattern – clusters of lighter minerals that create a floral speckle effect. Only a few quarries (perhaps 2–3) yield the top-grade Rajasthan Black with the most uniform deep black background and consistent dotting. Mining of this granite began in the 1980s and has expanded due to its popularity. All R Black quarries sit on the mineral-rich Aravalli range geology, giving the stone its strength and unique coloration.

Geologically, Rajasthan Black is sometimes classified as a type of gabbro or basalt (an igneous rock) rather than a true granite, due to its mineral composition and tight granite. Regardless of classification, it is very dense and hard. Because multiple quarries exist, there can be minor color/pattern variation from one lot to another (for example, some slabs show tiny blue specks or faint whitish lines). For large projects, it’s recommended to source slabs from the same quarry batch to ensure consistent appearance. Overall, the Rajasthan Black Granite from this region is not as absolutely jet-black as South Indian Absolute Black Granite (discussed later), but instead carries its hallmark subtle sparkles and dots that many find attractive.

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Appearance and Aesthetic Qualities of R Black Granite

The base color of Rajasthan Black Granite is a rich charcoal to pure black. Scattered across this dark base are fine-grained flecks in shades of gray and blue. This gives the stone a consistent speckled or dotted appearance rather than a solid uniform black. The overall look is one of subtle texture: from a distance the slab appears almost black, but up close one can appreciate the intricate sprinkling of minerals. In some quarry variants, small whitish or brownish spots (resembling tiny flowers) can be seen, though these are generally few and fine.

Its appearance remains fairly uniform across large surfaces, which designers appreciate for creating a continuous dark backdrop. Because of the slight bluish hue in some specks, this granite is sometimes marketed as “Blue Dot” Rajasthan Black in the stone industry.

Surface Finish Options in R Black Granite

One of the advantages of Rajasthan Black Granite is that it accepts a wide range of surface finishes, allowing it to be tailored for different design needs. Common finish options include:

Polished Finish: This is the most popular finish, yielding a glossy, mirror-like surface that reflects light. A polished Rajasthan Black slab showcases the full depth of its black color and the sparkle of its grey-blue flecks, making it ideal for high-end countertops, tabletops, or flooring where a luxurious look is desired.

Honed Finish: A honed (matte) finish gives a smooth but non-reflective surface. The stone appears a softer charcoal color when honed. This finish is great for those who want a muted, contemporary look or to use the granite in areas with bright lighting (since it won’t produce glare). Honed R Black Granite is sometimes used for flooring or wall cladding in modern interiors.

Leathered Finish: The leathered (also called satin) finish is a textured matte finish – the stone’s surface is lightly brushed to create a subtle texture that you can feel. This adds a tactile dimension while still retaining a relatively refined appearance. A leathered Rajasthan Black Granite has a rich, elegant character and is popular for countertops and wall accents where a unique texture is appreciated.

Flamed Finish: A flamed surface is achieved by high-temperature torching, which creates a rough, thermally textured face with excellent grip. Rajasthan Black Granite can be flamed to produce a grainy, anti-slip surface. This is commonly used for outdoor applications like paving, pool decks, or stair treads, as it provides traction and a lighter grey-black appearance.

Bush-Hammered / Sandblasted / Brushed: These are other textured finishes where the stone surface is mechanically treated to create roughness. Sandblasting and bush-hammering both yield a coarse, high-grip surface (often used in outdoor or high-traffic areas), while brushing produces a slightly undulating, aged look. Rajasthan Black Granite is available in all these textured finishes as well. Each finish can bring out a different aspect of the stone’s character – for instance, a sandblasted or shot-blasted R Black will appear lighter grey with the speckles subdued, useful for a rustic look or for combining with lighter stones.

In summary, virtually every common granite finish is possible with Rajasthan Black: from high-gloss polished to various matte and rough finishes. The stone’s tight grain and hardness allow it to take an excellent polish, but it also holds up well to texturing. Many suppliers even offer custom finishes or combinations (for example, a flamed and brushed finish) to meet specific design needs. This flexibility in finishing makes R Black Granite suitable for a broad spectrum of applications, as discussed next.

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Typical Uses and Applications of Ash Black Granite

Rajasthan Black is one of those granite types that can be used almost anywhere — from high-end interiors to outdoor pavers. It blends well with different surroundings and finishes, making it a go-to choice for both residential and commercial projects.

1. Kitchen Countertops & Islands
Rajasthan Black Granite is a top choice for kitchen countertops due to its durability, low maintenance, and ability to resist heat, scratches, and stains. It offers a look similar to Absolute Black but at a more affordable price. The dark base contrasts beautifully with lighter cabinets and suits modern kitchens well.

2. Flooring & Staircases
Widely used for both residential and commercial flooring. It handles heavy foot traffic and is popular for stair treads and risers. Polished finish adds depth indoors, while flamed or leathered surfaces are ideal for outdoor steps due to better grip.

3. Wall Cladding & Backsplashes
Used for interior feature walls, lift lobbies, backsplashes, and exterior facades. Its polished finish adds elegance indoors, while its durability and weather resistance make it perfect for modern building exteriors.

4. Outdoor Paving & Landscaping
Rajasthan Black Granite is used for outdoor pavers, pool decks, and patios. Flamed, bush-hammered, or sandblasted finishes provide slip resistance. It performs well in harsh climates and is a popular choice for landscape designers.

5. Window Sills, Thresholds & Frames
Commonly used in India for window ledges and door frames. Its affordability compared to Absolute Black makes it a preferred choice for such applications.

6. Monuments & Furniture Tops
Its ability to take a high polish makes it suitable for tombstones, benches, tabletops, and vanity tops. It adds a premium look without the cost of high-end black granites.

In summary, Rajasthan Black Granite can be used practically anywhere one would use a stone: countertops, floors, walls, stairs, facades, fireplaces, furniture tops, and so on. Its adaptability to both indoor and outdoor environments, coupled with a neutral black tone, means it fits into both modern and traditional designs. It’s equally at home in a chic city hotel lobby as it is in a home kitchen or a garden pathway. Moreover, it is chosen for both residential and commercial projects – homeowners love it for its beauty and value, while commercial builders use it for its durability and elegance in high-traffic spaces.

Rajasthan Black Granite Price Range and Buying Tips

One of the attractive aspects of Rajasthan Black Granite is its affordability relative to other black granites. In the Indian market, it is actually the most popular and widely used black granite from Rajasthan, partly because it offers good looks at a good price. As with any natural stone, prices can vary based on quality grade, block size, and supply-demand, but generally Rajasthan Black is considered a mid-range priced granite (cheaper than the absolute premium blacks, but a bit more than the lowest-end commercial granites).

Typical Price of Rajasthan Black Granite in India:

Rajasthan Black Granite slabs of standard 18–20 mm thickness and polished finish are priced roughly in the range of ₹70 to ₹95 per square foot for domestic buyers. This translates to about $0.8 to $1.3 USD per square foot, an attractive rate for a granite of this quality. Some commercial varieties or bulk deals might be even lower (reports of ~₹60/sqft for large quantities of lower grade material), while select premium lots (extra dark, uniform slabs) can be on the higher side (₹100+). A reputable supplier lists typical slab prices around ₹68 – ₹110 per sq. ft depending on grade. These figures are for polished slabs; specialty finishes or thicker pieces will cost more.

It’s important to mention that the name Rajasthan Black Granite is often used broadly in the market. Many black granites processed in Rajasthan are labeled as "R Black," even when they vary in colour, pattern, or mineral composition. This can result in a wide price range.

This can lead to confusion in pricing – you might see a wide range of quotes for what is ostensibly the same material. For instance, a black granite with more brownish tones or larger white veins (technically a different quarry product) might be sold under the R Black name at a lower price. Meanwhile, the pure deep-black, fine-speckled material commands a higher price.

The only variety from Rajasthan that clearly surpasses R Black in darkness and uniformity is sometimes called Morajhadi Black granite – a premium dark colour that’s quite rare and priced comparably to mid-range Absolute Black. But most suppliers and buyers will encounter just the general R Black categories (commercial vs premium grade).

How to Identify Genuine Rajasthan Black & Avoid Overpaying

Even if we touched on this earlier, here’s a quick, practical summary to help you make informed decisions:

1. Ask for Quarry Origin or Grade: A reliable supplier should mention specific sources like Chitamba or Malkot. If someone just says “Black Granite” without details, be cautious. Also ask if it’s premium or commercial grade.

2. Inspect Color & Pattern: Look for the classic charcoal-black base with fine grey/blue specks. Avoid slabs with brown undertones, heavy veining, or large mineral patches — they may not be true Rajasthan Black.

3. Do the Water or Acetone Test: Flip the slab and pour water on the back to see the real colour and grain. Use acetone on the front face — if colour comes off, it’s likely dyed. Treated slabs can fade over time, especially outdoors.

4. Buy from Trusted Sources: Established suppliers offer transparency, quality grades, and proper inspection (photos or physical). They’re less likely to mislabel or supply color-enhanced material.

By following these guidelines, you can better figure out which slabs are truly Rajasthan Black Granite and if the price is justified. Remember that within R Black itself, price can depend on the size of slabs (larger, flaw-free slabs cost more per sq.ft.), the finish (polished vs others), and thickness.

Rajasthan Black can have minor issues like dark plain black spots, water lines, or quartz patches in some (or all) slabs. These are not structural problems but aesthetic ones. If a slab has a noticeable patch, it might be discounted – which is fine if that portion can be cut around or used in an inconspicuous area. Inspect the material (or have detailed images) before marking a purchase.

Sizes, Thickness, and Forms Available

Rajasthan Black Granite is sold in various forms to suit different installation needs:

Rajasthan Black Granite Slabs:

The most common form is slabs, which are used for countertops, large floor panels, wall cladding, etc. There are two categories of slabs:

Verticle Size Slabs: These are smaller slabs typically cut on block cutters, often around 250-330 cm in height ( 8-11 feet by 2-3 feet) in size. They are popular for making countertops or small floor panels. Cutter slabs are widely available for Rajasthan Black, since medium blocks can be sliced into these. They are also relatively economical.
Gangsaw Slabs: These are larger slabs cut on multi-wire machines, usually 300–340 cm in length and 180–200 cm in height (10+ feet by 6+ feet). Gangsaw slabs cover a larger area without seams and are preferred for big countertops or expansive flooring. Rajasthan Black gangsaw slabs exist (some quarries yield big blocks), but they are less common compared to other granites. Because, as noted, many Rajasthan Black blocks have some spots or variations that become more pronounced over a large area, manufacturers often cut them smaller to avoid wastage. When top-grade large blocks are available, they command a premium. Some suppliers do offer “jumbo slabs” of R Black up to 300 cm x 190 cm, but always confirm availability if you specifically need very large pieces.

R Black Granite Tiles

The granite is also fabricated into tiles of various standard dimensions for flooring and wall use. Common tile sizes are 30x30 cm (12"x12"), 60x30 cm (24"x12"), 60x60 cm (24"x24"), or larger formats like 90x90 cm, etc., usually in 15 mm or 18 mm thickness for ease of installation. Calibrated tiles (with uniform thickness and polished or other finish) are popular for flooring large areas affordably.

Other Sizes

Countertop Cut-to-size: Many suppliers offer cut-to-size pieces for countertops, vanities, stair treads, etc. For example, you can get pre-cut countertop blanks in sizes like 96" x 26" or 108" x 36" in 2 or 3 cm thickness. Rajasthan Black is frequently pre-fabricated for kitchen tops, especially for export markets, with polished surface and finished edges. Stair treads (with a rounded or chamfered edge) and matching risers can be ordered to specific dimensions as well. Given its popularity, factories often keep standard sizes in stock.
Blocks: For large scale projects or for further fabrication, one can also purchase rough blocks of Rajasthan Black Granite. Blocks are rated by tonnage and quality, and are generally sold to factories for cutting. The stone has been quarried for decades, so block availability is good and blocks of varying sizes (from smaller 2-ton blocks to large 20-ton ones) are obtainable. In the export market, blocks are sometimes shipped for monumental or specialty cutting purposes.
Monuments and Customised Forms: As mentioned earlier, the stone is used for monuments, which might require thicker slabs or blocks. Thick slabs (5 cm, 8 cm, even up to 20 cm) can be cut for uses like pillars, garden benches, hefty steps, or carving purposes. Many suppliers will cut Rajasthan Black to any specified thickness for special orders – it has been done in 4-6 inch thick pieces for pillars and war memorials, for example.

Thickness Options for Rajasthan Black Granite

In the Indian market, Rajasthan Black Granite is most commonly cut in 16 mm thickness for cutter-size slabs. This has become the industry standard for domestic use due to ease of handling, reduced weight, and cost-effectiveness. Some export-oriented factories regularly cut 18 mm (1.8 cm) thick slabs as a standard for international markets.

For large-format slabs (also known as gangsaw slabs), the standard thicknesses remain 2 cm (20 mm) and 3 cm (30 mm). However, due to the unpredictable nature of the blocks—with larger natural spots or patches—gangsaw slabs in Rajasthan Black Granite are harder to source as ready stock.

For tiles, common thicknesses include 16 mm and 18 mm. For steps, risers, and edge-detailing, thicker sizes like 2 cm to 5 cm may also be custom-cut depending on the requirement.

If you have specific thickness requirements—whether for export, outdoor use, or edge fabrication—be sure to clarify with the supplier in advance.

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Rajasthan Black vs. South Indian Black Granites

Buyers often compare Rajasthan Black Granite with the famous South Indian black granites, such as Absolute Black (Premium Black) from Warangal or Chamrajnagar, and Black Galaxy from Andhra Pradesh. While all are black granites, there are some differences in appearance and other properties:

Appearance: Absolute Black is uniform jet black, while Rajasthan Black has fine grey-blue speckles. Black Galaxy features gold-flecked patterns that Rajasthan Black does not have.
Consistency: Absolute Black offers better uniformity across slabs. Rajasthan Black can vary in speckle size and tone between quarries, making slab selection important.
Size & Availability: South granites are commonly available in large and small format slabs. Rajasthan Black is mostly cut in cutter-size slabs due to block limitations.
Durability: Both are dense and hard, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. No major difference in maintenance or long-term performance.
Cost: Rajasthan Black is generally more economical, offering a good value alternative to South Indian blacks—especially for bulk or budget-conscious projects.

Explore Other Popular Granite Types You Should Know About

Looking at Rajasthan Granites? Don’t stop here. Explore other widely used stones like Fantasy Brown, Lakha Red, Markino Black, and more to make the right choice.

Rajasthan Black Granite: Complete Guide on Price, Uses, and Quarry Facts