We purchased a granite outdoor table & left it uncovered outside all winter (tag said all-weather... apparently not...) and the stone is now very faded. From a distance, it almost looks like it has a dust or powder on it. When it's wet, it looks wonderful! Any suggestion on how to get it back to it's original appearance? (We're in Northern CA, no snow/mild winters). Thank you!!

 

Dear Inquirer:

There are approximately one do zen stones that are true geological granite. You can add to that another 3 do zens or so of stones that could be considered next of kin to granite. All the rest of the stones traded as granite (over 2000 - yes, it's two thousand) are related to granite and to each other like a cat to cow.

That said, obviously your "granite" is not a stone appropriate for outdoors, no matter what the tag says.

The stone obviously lost its factory polish and depth of color along with it. Needless to say, when it gets wet, here you have again your depth of color, though without the original high-gloss finish.

The only true way to have it back as from the factory is to hire a bona fide stone restoration contractor to refinish your table top. However, keep in mind two things: 1. It's going to be a very expensive proposition, assuming that you can even find someone who can handle the job.  2. Unless you cover it, it will happen again.

A cheaper alternative is to apply to it a good-quality stone color enhancer, like MB-6. This will give you in a permanent way the very look as when the stone is wet.

Ciao and good luck,

Mauri z io Bertoli