5 minutes
Choosing a countertop for your kitchen or bathroom is always more than just buying another household item. It’s an investment in comfort, aesthetics, and even the atmosphere of your home. With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed: granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone—each has its own characteristics, advantages, and care requirements.
I often see how hard it is to make the right choice without prior experience. One of my clients, for example, dreamed of having elegant white marble in her kitchen. But considering her daily cooking habits, we went with a more practical choice—light quartzite. The kitchen kept its intended look, but maintaining it turned out to be much easier.
In this article, we’ll explore how to choose the best natural stone countertops—from understanding the properties of different stones to matching them with your interior. You’ll get practical tips, real-life examples, and find out how to select a material that will make you happy every single day. Ready to begin your journey into the world of natural beauty and durability? Let’s dive in!
When you start thinking about choosing a natural stone countertop, it’s important to understand the differences between the most popular materials. Each stone has its own strengths and weaknesses, which affect not just durability and maintenance, but also how your kitchen or bathroom will look years from now. We’ll go into more detail about pros and cons later, but for now, let’s look at the main natural materials available on the market today:
Granite is one of the most reliable materials for the kitchen. It’s known for its high strength, scratch and heat resistance. Thanks to its rich color palette, granite fits easily into various interior styles—from classic to modern minimalism. However, to keep the surface looking beautiful, it needs to be sealed regularly.
If you care about a striking appearance, marble can be a wonderful choice. Its dramatic veining and natural coolness create a refined feel. But keep in mind: marble is softer and more porous than other stones. It easily absorbs liquids and is prone to scratching, so it requires careful maintenance.
Marble looks especially beautiful in bathrooms, where the risk of mechanical damage is low and the atmosphere should feel relaxing and luxurious.
Quartzite is a true hero among natural stones. It combines the beauty of marble with incredible strength. Quartzite is resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, and its natural veining often resembles marble—making it a top pick for stylish yet hardworking kitchens.
Home Depot customers say that quartzite countertops handle daily use with ease, without the need for constant sealing:
“I cook for my family every day, and the quartzite countertop withstands everything from rolling out dough to hot pans. No stains, no marks. And it's also so beautiful!”
If you’re dreaming of a calm, “living” kitchen, consider soapstone. This stone is known for its resistance to acids and stains—without needing sealing. Over time, the surface develops a rich patina that gives the countertop a vintage charm.
Because it’s soft, soapstone can get small scratches, but they’re easy to fix with light sanding or stone oil.
In addition to the classic stones, there are other interesting different stone countertops to explore:
Each of these materials adds character and individuality to your interior but requires a thoughtful approach to both selection and care.
When I help clients choose the best natural stone for kitchen countertops, I always explain: a beautiful surface is only half the success. To ensure your countertop brings you joy for many years, you need to consider its durability, moisture resistance, maintenance complexity, and how well it fits into your interior. To make things easier, I’ve gathered the key parameters in a single table.
|
Parameter |
Granite |
Marble |
Quartzite |
Soapstone (Талькохлорит) |
|
Durability |
Very high. Withstands impact and high temperatures. |
Medium. Chips and scratches are possible. |
Very high. Sometimes even stronger than granite. |
Medium. Soft, scratches are possible. |
|
Moisture and Acid Resistance |
Excellent with sealing. |
Low. Easily absorbs liquids. |
Excellent with proper sealing. |
Excellent, no sealing required. |
|
Appearance |
Rich palette of patterns and tones. |
Luxurious veining, classic style. |
Marble-like look with more durability. |
Matte, warm appearance. |
|
Ease of Maintenance |
Low. Seal once a year. |
High. Requires delicate daily care. |
Moderate. Occasional resealing is needed. |
Minimal. Stone oil maintains appearance. |
When you compare the options side by side, it becomes much easier to see which type of stone fits your lifestyle. If you value strength and minimal upkeep, granite or quartzite are excellent choices. If you’re drawn to unique veining, a refined look, and don’t mind spending time on care, marble is a worthy option. And for those who love natural patina and low-maintenance surfaces, soapstone is a great fit.
Still, even the perfect material has to fit your renovation budget. Now let’s talk about how much natural stone countertops cost and what factors affect pricing.
When I consult clients on choosing the best stone for countertops, one of the first questions is almost always about cost. That’s completely understandable: the price of materials and labor is a key part of any remodeling budget. And yet, prices can vary greatly depending on the rarity of the stone, the type of finish, and the complexity of the project. Let’s take a look at what you should expect.
|
Type of Stone |
Average Cost per Sq. Ft* ($) |
|
Granite |
40–100 |
|
Marble |
40–150 |
|
Quartzite |
60–210 |
|
Soapstone |
60–130 |
The price of a countertop slab is based on several factors:
Sometimes it seems cheaper to just buy a ready-made slab from a big-box store. But remember: installation requires skill. One small mistake during setup can undo all your savings and hard work.
When I help my clients choose a countertop slab, I always recommend starting not with the stone’s properties, but with the overall look of the interior. The countertop shouldn’t clash with the space—it should enhance it. Natural stone can either be a bold focal point or a subtle backdrop—it’s all about defining the right role.
If you gravitate toward clean lines, light tones, and simple shapes, consider light granite or quartzite with minimal veining. These stones visually expand the space and pair beautifully with natural wood and black hardware.
If you love luxury, arches, and elegant details, marble is the perfect match. Its dramatic veining and soft glow create a timeless, high-end atmosphere. Calacatta or Statuario marble looks especially stunning when paired with dark cabinetry and brass fixtures.
I often see how, in traditional interiors, marble becomes the centerpiece—the design highlight that immediately draws the eye.
If warmth, coziness, and natural textures are your thing, go for soapstone or light slate. Their matte finish creates an organic texture and pairs effortlessly with wood, linen fabrics, and soft grays and beiges.
In spaces with exposed pipes, brick walls, and metal accents, dark granite or rugged slate really shine. Their bold textures amplify the raw, industrial vibe.
One of my recent clients chose Black Galaxy granite for a loft kitchen in Brooklyn—the result exceeded expectations: the stone became a true art piece against the backdrop of concrete walls.
When I help clients choose natural stone countertops, I always remind them: buying the slab is just the beginning. For the stone surface to bring you joy for many years, it must be installed properly. There are a few details you’ll want to know in advance—and trust me, I’ve seen plenty of examples where one small mistake led to big problems.
Natural stone isn’t just heavy—it’s extremely heavy. The average countertop weighs between 18 and 30 pounds per square foot. Imagine placing several grown adults on top of your kitchen cabinets—that’s how much weight we’re talking about.
That’s why I always say: before you buy, make sure your cabinets are strong enough. Sometimes, installation requires extra support—metal brackets or a reinforced frame. This is especially important for long countertops, kitchen islands, and bar tops. It’s better to plan for it now than to deal with cracks or sagging later.
Installing a countertop slab is precision work. Even though stone feels solid and indestructible, poor installation can lead to serious issues months down the line.
What’s important:
If you’d like to learn more about sealing, I recommend starting with the article “Do Granite Countertops Need Sealing? Busting Myths and Providing a Clear Answer.” You’ll find out when sealing is needed and why it matters.
I get it—sometimes you want to handle things yourself. After all, it might seem like “just putting a slab in place.” But when it comes to natural stone, I always recommend hiring professionals.
Why? Because one awkward movement while carrying the slab, and you’re left with a chip that can’t be repaired. One small mistake during installation, and cracks will show up in six months. One missed sealing step, and you’ll get stains that never come out.
If you want your countertop to be a true highlight of your home and last for years, find experienced pros. For example, check out the contractors listed in The First National Ranking of Stone Countertop Fabricators and Installers in the U.S.—these are trusted companies that know how to handle the job right.
When my clients are choosing a countertop, I always ask: “Where exactly do you want to install it?” Because the ideal stone for the kitchen might not be the best choice for a bathroom or a bar top. Natural materials have different properties, and using them correctly allows those properties to shine.
The kitchen is where a countertop faces real-life challenges: knives, hot pans, spilled wine and coffee. For this kind of wear and tear, I always recommend granite or quartzite.
If you're exploring kitchen countertop stone options, these two materials should be at the top of your list.
In bathrooms, countertops face less physical stress, but moisture is a constant issue. Here, marble and travertine truly shine.
Just don’t forget proper sealing: moisture can ruin even the most beautiful slab if you don’t protect it.
For these areas, I often recommend materials that are more “life-resistant,” like slate or soapstone.
Slab stone countertops look especially elegant on fireplaces or wide windowsills in country homes.
As you can see, each natural stone has its perfect “role” in your interior. Now that we’ve explored their properties, pricing, and best uses, it’s time to wrap things up and choose the material that will truly bring you joy for years to come!
Choosing a natural stone countertop is always a story of balance between heart and reason. You want the material to be beautiful, durable, and practical… and you want to smile every time you walk into your kitchen or bathroom and see the result of your decision.
At the beginning of this article, I asked: how do you choose the perfect surface that will make you happy every day? Now you have all the tools for making the right choice. If you value durability and easy maintenance, granite or quartzite will be excellent allies. If you’re looking for true elegance, marble will shine in your space. And if you want a warm, “living” atmosphere, look to soapstone or slate.
One more tip: if you want your installation to be just as high quality as the stone itself, be sure to visit The First National Ranking of Stone Countertop Fabricators and Installers in the U.S.—you’ll find contractors there who are truly worthy of your trust.
When you choose stone, you’re not just choosing a surface—you’re creating a source of strength for yourself and your loved ones. Let your new countertop be not only beautiful but also a part of your best moments: morning coffee, family dinners, and heart-to-heart conversations.
And if one day, many years from now, someone runs their hand across the smooth surface and says, “It feels so cozy here,” — that means everything turned out just the way it should.
What is the best stone for kitchen countertops?
In practice, the most popular choices are granite and quartzite. The best stone for kitchen countertops is one that can handle heavy use, resist heat and scratches, and complement your interior. Granite is great for those seeking practicality, while quartzite is ideal for those who want the look of marble without the fuss.
What are the types of natural stone countertops?
There are several main types of natural stone countertops: granite, marble, quartzite, soapstone, slate, travertine, and limestone. Each material has its own properties when it comes to strength, moisture resistance, maintenance, and appearance.
What types of countertop slabs are used for stone surfaces?
Countertop slabs are typically 2–3 cm thick. These are solid pieces of natural stone, custom-cut to fit your kitchen or bathroom. It’s important to consider not just the thickness but also the veining of the stone, especially if it’s highly patterned.
Which is better — marble or granite?
It all depends on your priorities. If you want elegance and a refined appearance, marble is a great choice. But if your top priorities are durability and low maintenance, go with granite. That’s why the best stone for countertops often depends on a family’s lifestyle.
How much does it cost to install natural stone countertops?
The cost of natural stone countertops depends on the type of material, slab thickness, and complexity of the cutting and installation. On average, prices range from $40* to $210* per square foot. When planning, factor in not only the stone’s cost but also installation and sealing expenses.
Also read:
* The price is valid as of May, 2025, published for informational purposes and may differ on the day the article is read. Prices are based on average data from Home Depot, Houzz, HomeAdvisor, and other relevant sources in the U.S.
All images are sourced from Unsplash and Pinterest photo stock or publicly available contractor portfolios. If you believe any image is privately owned and used without proper credit, please contact us at contact@countertopcontractors.com.
Some authors may write under a pseudonym and choose not to disclose their identities for personal reasons. We respect their privacy and simply provide a platform for professional, educational use. We are not responsible for name coincidences with real individuals. All contributors are vetted for expertise, but we advocate for freedom of expression.
Promote your countertop business with a sponsored article. Reach homeowners, show your expertise, and gain traffic.
This is our price research for Carrara Moro and Calacatta Idillio countertops in Carlsbad, CA. Find out which companies took on our project and how much they paid for it.
This is our pricing research on Carrara Moro and Calacatta Idillio countertops. Find out which companies took on our project and how much they quoted for it.
This is our price research for Carrara Moro and Calacatta Idillio countertops in Gresham, OR. Find out which companies took on our project and how much they paid for it.
One email with the best materials for the week — no spam, only useful information!
Watch and study articles by new authors on a daily basis🥰
Gain experience and start publishing your articles to help others
