Granite can make a terrific aesthetic statement in your kitchen. Whether smoothly honed or polished to a mirror finish, it can compliment most design styles. Granite can really stand up to daily kitchen life. Its natural qualities make it waterproof and stain resistant, and it can survive contact with hot pots.

If you fall for granite, plan to spend time choosing the right slab – colors and veining vary. The fewer and smaller the veins, the more durable the finished counter. You’ll need beefier cabinets to handle the weight, so talk this over with your kitchen designer or fabricator before you order cabinets.

Though granite slabs are typically the most expensive countertop, stone tile cuts the cost. Medium range pricing in granite can get you a slab with a simple backsplash and sink cut out. On the pricey end, you can get curved corners, intricate edge details, and extra cuts and joints in the stone.