Real Stone Fountains or Handcrafted Rock Fountains? Which One Best Fits You?

Do you ever find yourself envisioning a tranquil oasis right in your backyard, where the soothing sound of flowing water brings a sense of serenity to your surroundings?

What if you could choose between two unique and enchanting options: real stone fountains crafted from onyx, marble, sandstone, granite, limestone, and basalt, or handcrafted rock fountains, made from lightweight, durable GFRC, mimicking the natural allure of real boulders that even draw wildlife?

The choices might seem confusing or unclear at first, but in this article, we explore the distinct characteristics of both real stone fountains and handcrafted rock fountains, helping you determine which one best fits your style and vision.

The Timeless Elegance of Real Stone Fountains

Real stone fountains are the epitome of timeless elegance, a breathtaking fusion of natural beauty and artistic craftsmanship. Mined from the depths of the Earth, these fountains are created from exquisite stones such as onyx, marble, sandstone, granite, limestone, and basalt.

Each piece is a unique masterpiece, shaped and sculpted by both the hands of skilled artisans and the passage of time.

Real stone fountains bring a sense of permanence and grandeur to any setting. These majestic pieces of art are built to withstand the test of time, becoming the centerpiece of your landscape for generations to come.

While real stone fountains exude timeless beauty, they also offer practical benefits. Thanks to the durability and resistance to weathering inherent in natural stone, these fountains require minimal maintenance.

To give you a better glimpse at what you're missing out on, let's take a closer look at some of our Real Stone Fountain Kits available here at Blue Thumb:

1. 18" Red Marble - Almond Fountain Kit

The Almond fountain is a cunningly crafted piece, inviting water to playfully cascade over its smooth exterior, creating an exquisitely tranquil experience.

This fountain kit includes everything you need for easy installation: a medium molded fountain basin, a powerful 660 gph Mag-Drive pump, a flow control valve, plumbing, tubing, and 120 lbs of Black Polished Pebbles.

Place this fountain in your courtyard, and watch as it becomes a mesmerizing focal point, enchanting guests and family alike.

2. Ringed Circle Fountain

The Ringed Circle Fountain combines the timeless charm of millstones with the beauty of granite. Water pools and ripples across the carefully cut circles, eventually flowing down the rough sides, creating a harmonious dance of water and stone.

This fountain kit includes a medium molded fountain basin, a 530 gph Mag-Drive pump, a flow control valve, plumbing, tubing, and 120 lbs of Black Polished Pebbles.

Ideal for gardens and serene outdoor spaces, the Ringed Circle Fountain adds an element of serenity and sophistication.

3. Granite Sphere Fountain Kit

The Granite Sphere Fountain Kit presents a beautifully textured granite sphere with a drilled center, offering a modern yet primitive water feature effect. Its simple yet powerful design imparts a commanding presence with the gentle sound of water movement.

The kit includes an 8" diameter sphere, a mini basin, a reliable 370gph Mag-Drive Pump, kink-free tubing with quick disconnects and required fittings, as well as 40 lbs of Black Polished Pebbles.

Place this fountain amidst a vibrant flower bed or near a cozy seating area, and experience the enchantment it brings to your outdoor sanctuary.

Handcrafted Rock Fountains - The Beauty of Nature Reimagined

Made in Blue Thumb's Michigan facility, handcrafted rock fountains are a remarkable fusion of artistry and nature. Cast from real boulders using lightweight and durable GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete), these fountains replicate the appearance of natural rocks while offering enhanced durability and reduced weight.

What is GFRC? Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) is a material that combines the strength of concrete with the flexibility of glass fibers. The result is a product that looks and feels like real stone but is lighter and more resilient.

Imagine a handcrafted rock fountain nestled amidst your garden, its authentic appearance attracting curious wildlife to take a sip of water from its tranquil surface. These fountains are designed to create eye-catching water features that seamlessly blend into the surrounding environment.

That said, let's take a look at some of the Handcrafted rock fountains, offered here at Blue Thumb, for a glimpse into the rugged charm that they can bring to your doorstep.

1. Large Bird Bath Fountain Kit

This kit brings nature to your backyard, providing optimal viewing as birds delightfully splash and preen on its wide surface, all while enjoying the pleasant sound of gently moving water.

The GFRC Large Bird Bath Fountain Rock boasts a natural look and texture, molded from real stone to ensure years of durability. Despite its appearance, this fountain weighs hundreds of pounds less than its identical "real" stone counterparts, making installation a breeze.

The kit includes a GFRC Large Bird Bath Fountain Rock, a 48" Achelous Basin, a Blue Thumb Large Mag-Drive Pump with a flow of 1,100 gph, kink-free tubing with quick disconnects, ball valve, and required fittings, as well as polished pebbles.

2. Mountain Spring Rock Fountain Kit

The Mountain Spring Rock Fountain exudes the charm of a gentle waterfall, its layers creating a mesmerizing water feature that harmonizes seamlessly with any garden landscape. Crafted with GFRC, this fountain offers the look and texture of real stone while remaining lightweight for easy placement.

The kit includes a GFRC Mountain Spring Rock Fountain, a 48" Achelous AquaBox Basin, a Blue Thumb Medium Mag-Drive Pump with a flow of 800 gph, kink-free tubing with quick disconnects, ball valve, and required fittings, as well as polished pebbles.

3. Aquascape Spillway Bowl and Basin Landscape Fountain Kit

For a multi-step fountain that elevates any setting, the Aquascape Spillway Bowl and Basin Landscape Fountain Kit is an ideal choice. This kit bundles the perfect combination of products, providing everything you need for an impressive recirculating fountain.

The Spillway Bowl and Spillway Basin, constructed of durable GFRC, display a unique patina finish that adds an elegant touch to your outdoor space.

The included AquaBasin® 45 stores up to 98 gallons of water, minimizing maintenance and ensuring the fountain's longevity. The kit also includes an energy-efficient Ultra Water Pump for smooth water circulation and easy installation with pipe and fittings.

An Outdoor Oasis Tailored to Your Taste

In the end, the decision between real stone fountains and handcrafted rock fountains boils down to the ambiance you want to create in your outdoor space.

Consider the architectural style of your outdoor space, the size and placement of the fountain, as well as your budget and maintenance preferences.

Whether you choose a real stone fountain or a handcrafted rock fountain, our high-quality products are designed to inspire and elevate your outdoor oasis.