You'd think you need futuristic technology to create a material that lasts a lifetime, but the answer has actually been around for ages. Stone is quickly gaining popularity as the ultimate outdoor furniture material, and for several good reasons. It's not exactly traditional, but think about it: wood will rot, metal will rust, and plastic will break, but stone will stay virtually unchanged for well over a hundred years.

Of course, stone furniture is by no means perfect. Like any other material, it has its pros and cons, and it helps to know what they are. Read on to find out more.

USES AND PROPERTIES:

Needless to say, stone's main selling point is its durability. Even teak, one of the sturdiest outdoor woods, has to be dragged in or at least covered up during heavy rains. But stone furniture can be left outdoors throughout its life with very little maintenance. In fact, no one really knows how much weather it can take because it has outlived most of its owners!

However, one of the biggest drawbacks of stone is comfort. Because it's so hard and solid, it has virtually no give. The only way you can sit comfortably on a stone chair is by cushioning it, but you'll have to remove the cushions after every use. That, or get an ergonomically designed one. But stone is difficult to work with, so it takes a lot of effort--and money--to create something that hugs like a wicker chair.

If you're looking for a matching set, you won't have much luck with stone, either. Stone furniture is made from slabs, and there aren't many that are big enough for a table and a couple of chairs. But most of them come in random, irregular shapes that make very interesting solo pieces.

BUYING STONE FURNITURE:

Stone furniture can be expensive, so it's best to set a budget and stick to it. Expect to pay at least $300 for a good quality chair, or more if you want it hand-carved or made of marble or granite. Any stone is guaranteed to last, so even the cheapest varieties are a good investment. But it always helps to choose wisely and pay close attention to detail. Here are some things to look for:

Construction: Most stone pieces are mounted on metal or wooden bases. Make sure the slab is firmly joined to the base, even and steady, and that the metal parts are rustproof. The slabs tend to loosen over time, so look for one you can fix on your own.

Weight: If your patio isn't paved, stone may not be right for you. At about 200 pounds, a stone chair can easily sink into soft surfaces, and you'll need a lot of help getting it out.

Location: Stone furniture is hard to move around, so pick a spot you're sure you will like for years. A good location can be under a tree, a gazebo, or beside a pool or pool bar.

Comfort: Comfort is the biggest tradeoff in stone furniture, but that doesn't mean you have no options. Try out several chairs and see how they feel against your body. Don't expect the comfort of a couch, but make sure you can sit on it for a couple of hours without complaining.

Finish: Stone doesn't need much protection. It can be painted or lacquered, but it will fade over time and it can be hard to find a match for a retouch. Go for a plain piece instead--it'll go well with any garden and only requires occasional sanding.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE:

Stone furniture is perfect for those who can't be bothered with cleaning duties. A little buffing and cleaning is all the maintenance they will need, and maybe an occasional retouch to retain the gloss. Stains can easily be washed off even after several hours. Scratches and cracks are a bit hard to patch up, but they don't affect the quality as much as they do other materials.