Granite stone cookware offers complete sets of lightweight pots and pans, finished with a nonstick coating inside. Similar to several other brands of nonstick cookware, Granitestone is primarily sold via infomercials on TV. And while those infomercials made be eye-catching and intriguing – the claims those various companies make often seems over the top. Our recommendation is neither to blindly accept or reject to those claims and instead – take them with a grain of salt – and do some research of your own.
That’s the purpose this article. So we set out to investigate. We researched Granitestone cookware – also know as Granite Rock pan, Granitestone diamond – and just plain Granite cookware. And we’re happy to share our findings with you – so you can decide for yourself as a more informed consumer.
A Steady Performer
What we discovered was that this company actually offers are several sets of nonstick pots and pans that work quite well. Does the product actually live up to every bold statement made in their television ads? In our opinion – no, it does not. But that doesn’t mean these nonstick pots and pans are a failure either. In fact, Granitestone’s products have proven to be solid performers. So it’s no surprise that this brand has become a favorite nonstick brand in many homes across the country and around the world.
The Difference That Makes A Difference
What sets Granitestone apart from other cookware in the nonstick cookware category is in the coating applied to the interior of these pots and pans. Form what we can determine (companies tend to be secretive about their unique creations) is that this coating is actually a proprietary blend of a sand-like substance that contains real granite. Others use Teflon, ceramic, titanium and other variations. But what separates Granitestone cookware from others is their infused nonstick coating.
Advertising claims suggest that this material is “designed to withstand anything. But keep in mind, that nonstick surfaces are thinner-than-paper coatings on the inside of the pans. It’s essentially a granite/sand mix that has been fused to an aluminum base. So it probably doesn’t take a demolition expert to inflict damage.
Lightweight Pans that Heat Up Fast
Since it’s made from aluminum (the lightest cookware material) all of these Granitestone pans and pots are reasonably lightweight. It also mans that they heat up super-fast (there’s no waiting around) and cook nice and evenly since that heat is well distributed. Aluminum is highly-responsive to changes in temperature in some ways it’s a lot like copper, without the added cost. So all in all, Granite Cookware makes for a helpful set of everyday kitchen tools.
Aluminum is not as effective at retaining heat as cast-iron is. But it heats up far faster and is much easier to move around on the stove top or in the oven.
Do It All
You can sauté, sear, pan fry or even bake or roast with granite stone. So this is multi-functional cookware that can serve most families well. The manufacturer claims this cookware is oven safe up to 500° Fahrenheit. This is an excellent feature for finishing dishes that start on the stove and end in the oven like paella or a casserole dish you want to crisp up and make golden brown on top. It’s also a good way to ensure that the dish you’re preparing is fully cooked all the way through.
Same Product – Different Names
Granite rock pans and granite stone cookware is essentially the same product of different generations – from the same brand. Both use a PTFE based coating to create a quick food release on the interior of those pans. According to industry insiders, PTFE is considered harmless to humans – as long as it is used correctly- meaning at low to medium temperatures only. It can begin to deteriorate at temperatures above 500°F. Cooking on high heat with nonstick cookware is something you should never do anyway with any product.
What Granite offers is a more durable nonstick coating to ceramic, although it is a somewhat controversial finish due to the potential health and environmental impact.
Expected Lifespan of Nonstick Cookware
Granitestone cookware – used properly and well-maintained – can give you up to five years of reliable service, before the nonstick properties begin to lose their effectiveness.
You will get the most value from your granite stone cookware by avoiding metal utensils, never placing your cookware in the dishwasher, and always cook at low to medium temperatures. It’s also important that if you are stacking these pots and pans with others – you need a protective layer in between.
Cookware granite stone works well on a variety of stove tops – with the exception of induction.
Granite stone’s pots and pans feature handles that don’t get excessively hot on the stove and have a beautiful aesthetic. Not only that, they feel sturdy in your hand. These handles are made of stainless steel and so they heat up slower than the aluminum base these pans are made from. This is what allows the handle to remain somewhat cooler than the pan. Of course you should never take a chance when handling a cookware handle. Always test first and err on the side of caution by wearing a silicone oven mitt or by using a potholder.
Simple and Fast Cooking On A Budget
Granite stone cookware is an easy and cost-effective way to outfit any kitchen with practical cooking tools you can use every day. This line of cookware seems to be particularly effective when used to cook delicate dishes like tender fish, pancakes and eggs.
Pay More Attention To Directions Than Advertising
The main thing to keep in mind when using a set of nonstick cookware like granite stone is to read the instructions before using. Ignore the advertising hype, which for some reason in the cookware industry is often overstated.
For example – these pans (and most others too) are marketed as “dishwasher safe”. But putting them in the dishwasher is the last thing you want to do because you’re risking not only the appearance of your pans – but that all-important nonstick surface too.
Never place a hot skillet in cold water. Sure that sizzle might sound appealing, but it’s a guaranteed way to damage your pans. That’s because the materials used have distinct properties and expand and contract at different rates. This will cause your pans to warp and the nonstick surface to break down prematurely.
It’s usually best to clean nonstick cookware like granite stone by simply wiping it down with a soft cloth or paper towel after the pan has cooled and cleaning it in warm water. It is best if you can avoid using soap is it can actually damage the nonstick coating.
You should avoid stacking these if you can. This may not always be possible, due to limited storage space. But stacking without protection is a sure -way to create scratches, chips and dents on your pans.
It’s also important to avoid using low smoke oils and to not apply aerosol spray-on oils to your Granitestone cookware, since it too can damage the nonstick coating.
Affordably Outfit A Kitchen
Granite stone sets of pots and pans offer good value. They are all affordable, making this brand an excellent starter option for singles and couples just starting out. It also works well in dorm rooms and cottages and other vacation properties, as well as RVs and trailers. Granite delivers good performance at a fair price.
When you are outfitting a kitchen on a budget and durability is not your primary concern – but convenience and functionality is – than a nonstick set of set of pots and pans like what Granitestone offers can make a lot of sense. And while the pots and pans don’t necessarily live up to the advertising claims (few cookware brands do) it’s a versatile set at a price that’s hard to beat.
Natural Minerals Used
Another advantage of Granitestone over some of their competitors is that they use a natural mineral coating (actual granite) that is fused into the aluminum at extreme temperatures. As it turns out, not only is it a nonstick surface for easy cooking, but it makes it incredibly easy to clean those pans afterwards. And this is what seems to attract most buyers to the brand.
It’s important to keep in mind that the layer of granite is extremely thin (as it is with any nonstick coated pans) and therefore susceptible to scratching, chipping and even peeling. So you need to treat them with care and handle delicately. That is probably the best way to get years of reliable service from your cookware.
Like most manufacturers, Granite claims to use a triple layer of granite – and that’s what makes their pans nonstick. But in use “nonstick” really means that you should probably add a little bit of butter or oil to the pan first. And after cooking – this residue needs to be wiped clean to protect the coating.
#1: Granitestone Five Piece Nonstick Cookware Set
Our first recommendation is perfect for singles or couples just starting out and outfitting their first kitchen. In many cases, this five piece set will be enough to get started and will help you prepare a wide array of dishes.
What’s In The Box?
8.5 inch frying pan
10.25 inch frying pan with lid
2.5 quart sauce pan with lid
The multi layered granite nonstick surface provides an easy food release so flipping and tossing is a fairly easy to do – once you get the hang of it. These pans are also easy to clean. Since the base is made of aluminum -it’s an efficient heat conductor. This means cooking is quick and you can achieve that perfect golden brown finish too. Since these pans are made from anodized aluminum, they’re strong enough to be placed in an oven up to 500°F.
So essentially what you’re getting is two pans and one pot plus lids. It’s perfect for 2 to 3 people with its nonstick, non-toxic, durable granite coating on the inside. And the overall consensus from buyers is that this set works well and may be one of the better brands of nonstick cookware. You get efficient and even heating, which leads to evenly cooked food – just the way you want it.
To get the most value and longevity from your set, remember to always wash by hand and use only silicone or wooden utensils. This way, you’ll help protect the nonstick surface.
Some say that these pans are smaller than they appear in the marketing. It would be helpful if sellers and manufacturers actually provided a point of reference as part of their images. If items were displayed next to a can of Coke (for example) people could use as a quick visual reference to more accurately gain an understanding of the size.
Although these pans are often marketed as “non-stick” you’ll tend to get better results if you use a little bit of oil. People who tell you otherwise are not being completely honest. On that point, it’s definitely healthier using a little bit of oil in a pan instead of more than is necessary – as is often suggested in recipes you come across.
#2: Granitestone Red Cookware 10 Piece Set
If you’re looking for a medium size set of nonstick cookware with a classic red finish – this could be the one for you.
What’s In The Box?
8.5 inch frying pan
10.25 inch frying pan with lid
1.5 quart sauce pan with lid
2.5 quart sauce pan with lid
5 quart stock pot with lid
Stainless steel steamer basket insert
Like other granite cookware reviews state, this set features cool touch handles and a triple layer of granite nonstick coating. In this case – the finish also includes titanium – providing extra strength.
These pans and pots are made from pressed anodized aluminum and sprayed with a durable three layer proprietary coating that includes granite and as mentioned, titanium too.
Like other nonstick cookware, this one is marketed as being metal utensil and dishwasher safe. But we recommend using only nylon or bamboo or silicone utensils and washing by hand.
If you’re looking for a sleek looking set of cookware with a modern design touch – this could be perfect for you. The handles are coated with a secure grip silicone, which is another notable difference from the previous set.
#3: Granitestone 10 Piece Stackmaster With Nonstick Coating
Not surprisingly, it’s another Granitestone product that has impressed buyers. With well over 2600 actual buyers reporting – this 10 piece stackable cookware scores a respectable 4.5 out of 5 stars.
What’s In The Box?
8 inch frying pan
10 inch skillet/frying pan
2.75 quart sauce pan with lid
5 quart sauce pan with lid
3.75 sauté pan with lid
5.3 quart stock pot with lid
With this 10 piece package – you’re getting a dense, non-porous finish that’s wear-resistant. So with proper maintenance, you should get plenty of use from this collection. Lids are made of tempered glass. This allows you to look inside and monitor your foods as you’re cooking.
This and all other granite stone cookware is PFOA and PFOS-free. That means it’s a healthy, non-toxic coating that you can safely cook meals with for the whole family.
This cookware set is compatible with any type of stove – including electric, gas, ceramic and induction. It’s a versatile set with even heating capability and the added benefit of being able to stack these pots and pans and store them in limited space is terrific huge plus for anyone with a small kitchen.
#4: Granitestone 10 Piece Set
8 inch frying pan
10.25 inch frying pan with lid
1.5 quart sauce pan with lid
2.5 quart sauce pan with lid
5 quart sauce pan with lid
Stainless steel steamer basket
Five kitchen utensils
As with other Granitestone sets, this one includes their proprietary triple-layered food grade nonstick coating that includes natural granite rock. This high-grade mineral coating is pressed onto an anodized aluminum base at extreme temperatures – fusing these two different materials together as one. The result is a product that provides excellent heat conductivity and when your food is ready – it slides right out of the pan and onto a plate. This set is also oven-safe at temperatures up to 500°F.
The Verdict
While some of the advertising claims are exaggerated, it doesn’t take away from the fact that this brand produces products that are actually quite good.
If you’re looking for a reliable set of pots and pans with a nonstick surface – there’s no question, the Granitestone brand – offers several stellar options and all are affordable. We’ve featured what we believe are the top 4 sets in their lineup. If we had to narrow our selection to just one – we would likely opt for this top choice.
