Natural Stone

Granite countertops consistently rank as the most desired kitchen surface due to their durability and aesthetics. They are, however, not the only option when looking for a rich, appealing and durable counter surface.

The most common natural stones used to make kitchen counters are:

• Granite
• Marble
• Limestone
• Slate
• Soapstone

Additional Options are:

• Onyx
• Travertine
• Sandstone

How They Compare:

Granite

Granite is the most durable and is chip and scratch resistant. You can cut, roll dough, and place hot pots directly on granite. Because stone is porous, each stone requires special sealants. But granite absorbs the least and only requires resealing about once a year.

Marble

Because it’s smooth and cool to the touch, marble is the traditional favorite for rolling dough and making pastries. However, it lacks the durability of granite and requires sealants to be applied more frequently to prevent stains.

Limestone

Limestone is not the best choice for messy—or frequent—ooks. It offers a unique weathered look but also stains easily due to its more porous nature, so spills must be addressed immediately. But don’t write it off too quickly: Jerusalem stone, a generic term for stone primarily quarried from areas around the Holy Land, is a dolomite-limestone that resembles marble but is hardier than both it and limestone.

Slate

Used for centuries to create stylish weather resistant roofs, slate's natural beauty and strength are finding their way into the kitchen. Befitting of a roofing material, slate is durable, hard and fireproof. Luckily, it's beautiful, too, making it a prime choice for homeowners seeking a countertop that will make a statement. Its low absorption rate keeps stains at bay, though you may want to seal regularly to add a further dose of protection.

Soapstone

Often referred to as “the original stone countertop,” early settlers in New England relied on the durable material for their own countertops. Far from a high-maintenance top, soapstone’s inert nature means acids won’t etch the material, and stains can be rubbed out. Mineral oil treatment will bring out a darker, richer color. Make a powerful statement by combining with a soapstone

Onyx

Onyx is a very soft stone and somewhat brittle. It needs to be installed where it will not be subject to hard wear. This beautiful stone is characterized by its translucence and can actually be backlit for striking, dramatic effects.

Sandstone

Known for their rich texture, grain and colors, sandstone has high aesthetic value. They do, however, require more maintenance and diligence than other natural stone countertops, but the visual result is well worth the extra care.

Travertine

Travertine tile is a very sturdy natural stone choice and most travertine tile used as flooring or as a decorative tile is white, tan or cream colored. The hues of color found in travertine tile blend together to create a distinct pattern that will create a wonderful addition to your home or office