Granite countertops can transform the look and feel of any kitchen. With its natural beauty, durability, and variety of colors and patterns, granite is one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertops today. But with so many granite options to choose from, how do you narrow it down to the best granite countertops for your kitchen? Here are our top 5 favorite granites that will help you achieve the gorgeous kitchen of your dreams.
Introduction
When remodeling or designing a new kitchen, choosing the right countertop is one of the most important decisions. The countertop is the focal point of the kitchen and endures heavy daily use. Granite countertops are one of the best options because of their superior durability, aesthetics, and value.
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. It’s the ideal countertop material for busy kitchens. With proper sealing and care, granite countertops can last for decades, retaining their original beauty. Granite also adds sophisticated elegance to kitchens with its unique natural patterns and colors. The resale value of granite countertops is very high compared to other materials.
With so many granite varieties, making the right choice can seem daunting. Color and pattern preferences are subjective, but some granites repeatedly rise to the top as homeowners’ favorites. The following five gorgeous granites are perennial top choices among kitchen designers, remodelers, and homeowners.
1. White Fantasy Granite
White Fantasy granite lives up to its dreamy name with its light gray and white background interrupted with dramatic charcoal gray and burgundy veining. The overall effect is refined, classic, and timeless. This versatile neutral granite is one of the most popular choices for two-toned kitchens featuring white cabinetry and darker hardware and lighting fixtures.
The grayish background nicely complements stainless steel and silvery metal finishes. For a splash of contrast, pair white fantasy granite with deep red ceramic tiles or fruit bowl. This striking granite is ideal for transitional, contemporary, or modern kitchen styles. The light coloring keeps small kitchens looking open and airy.
White Fantasy granite is exclusive to Brazil and relatively rare. It has a consistent background color that makes coordinating multiple slabs easy. The bold patterns and shade variations make each countertop unique. White Fantasy brings a dreamy elegance to kitchens and works equally well for bathrooms.
2. Golden Crystal Granite
As the name implies, Golden Crystal granite gleams with flecks of gold and copper sparkling throughout a textured white background. Sometimes brown garnets and cobalt blue crystals occur in the stone, adding to its glamorous appearance. The overall look is chic, sophisticated, and luxurious.
Golden Crystal instantly classes up kitchens, especially with brass hardware and lighting. The metallic shimmer catches and reflects light beautifully in an understated way. It pairs nicely with cream cabinetry and dark wood flooring for a harmonious upscale look.
While light in color, the marbling keeps the granite from appearing flat and monotonous. The stone is quarried in Brazil, cut into slabs, and processed in Italy under close supervision to ensure consistent quality. Golden Crystal costs more than other granites but adds high-end style perfect for upscale traditional or contemporary kitchen designs.
3. Baltic Brown Granite
Baltic Brown granite is treasured for its rich chocolate and caramel swirls and bursts of golden tan mineral deposits. This natural stone from Finland resembles an elegant abstract painting. The mesmerizing patterns make a stylish focal point for modern farmhouse or industrial kitchens.
Baltic Brown’s neutral earthy tones pair well with stainless steel, natural wood cabinetry, and ceramic tile floors for a cohesive look. The darkness of the stone prevents it from showing stains and makes the gold striations pop. Baltic Brown matches many color schemes from bold primaries to muted neutrals.
The granite’s swirls pair nicely with chocolate glazed cabinets or an accent wall painted a deeper tone of brown. For a striking monochromatic scheme, use chocolate brown mosaic backsplash tiles and window valances. Baltic Brown conveys a sense of depth and dimension ideal for large kitchen islands. The superb quality Scandinavian granite adds beauty and luxury wherever applied.
4. Azul Platino Granite
One glimpse of this rare blue granite from Brazil explains its popularity. Azul Platino consists of an icy blue background with a swirling pattern of darker blues, gray, taupe, and veins of quartz and feldspar. The overall effect resembles an impressionist watercolor painting with different shades blending into each other.
Azul Platino granite perfectly suits coastal cottages and beach houses. The colors evoke a sense of soothing tranquility — ideal for a space as busy as a kitchen. It also nicely complements white, stainless steel, and light wood cabinetry. For a bold accent wall, pair Azul Platino with navy or teal painted cabinets.
While predominantly blue, Azul Platino contains enough neutral tones to prevent the space from becoming overly cool and monochromatic. It adds a touch of warmth paired with travertine subway tiles and can lights with brass fixtures. This gorgeous granite resembles marble but performs better than marble as an engineered stone. Azul Platino instantly classes up contemporary kitchens.
5. Black Pearl Granite
The profound blackness of Black Pearl granite makes it one of the most coveted varieties. Mined in India and finished in Italy, Black Pearl gets its prestigious name from its smooth black background and elegant white veining reminiscent of a night sky full of stars.
The deep black color contrasts beautifully with stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry. Tiny flecks of burgundy garnet and bronze mica crystals add visual interest and a luminous shimmer. When paired with glass cabinet doors, the granite’s sheen reflects and amplifies the smallest amount of lighting in the kitchen.
For a dramatic, sophisticated look combine Black Pearl with contrasting white quartzite or white marble countertops. Use a few large pieces of white marble as a baking station or bar area to break up the darkness. The inky ostrich leather-like patterns make this granite equally stunning for contemporary bathrooms.
Black Pearl brings a sense of elegance to any space. The purity of color gives it a classy, polished look perfect for formal kitchens. Black Pearl makes a bold statement for modern homes desiring a sleek monochromatic color scheme.
How to Choose the Best Granite for Your Kitchen
With numerous high-quality granites to pick from, deciding on a favorite can seem challenging. Consider the following tips when selecting the perfect granite for your kitchen:
- Coordinate with your cabinetry – Granite and cabinet colors should blend well together. Dark granites often pair best with light cabinets and vice versa. Wood cabinets also look more cohesive with granite containing brown, black, or gold tones.
- Factor in the lighting – Granites with a lot of dark patterns can appear too busy in spaces with recessed lighting. Lighter granites show more detailing under pendant lights and natural sunlight.
- Consider adjoining rooms – Try to choose a granite hue that complements the color scheme of nearby rooms for a harmonious look.
- Focus on your favorites – Narrow down the options by eliminating colors you dislike. Then examine your top choices in person before deciding. The small differences between granites often becomes more apparent when viewing slabs.
- Include other surfaces – If using granite for countertops and backsplash, select coordinating types or a matching slab. Consistent coloring brings everything together.
- Envision the finished kitchen – Picture how the granite will look installed with your chosen cabinet style, flooring, walls, and decor. The whole aesthetic should appeal to your taste.
What to Expect – From Selection to Installation
Installing new granite countertops involves several steps, starting with selecting the right stone. What should you anticipate if undertaking a granite kitchen countertop replacement? Here is an overview of the process:
Slab Selection
The first step entails visiting a stone supplier’s warehouse to view full granite slabs and select the portions for cutting. Try to find slabs with coloring and patterns that closely match when aligning multiple pieces. Also examine the stone for any cracks or flaws. Look for a consistent background color without extreme variation between slabs to achieve the most seamless results.
Template and Measurements
After purchasing the slabs, the installer will take exact measurements and create a template from heavy paper or cardboard tracing the existing countertops. This template guides cutting the granite to fit precisely. For new constructions, cabinets should be installed and secured before measuring.
Fabrication
Granite slabs require cutting to the specifications of the template. Computer-numeric control (CNC) machines precisely cut the granite at the fabricator’s shop. The cut pieces get polished and finished on all sides. The fabricator may cut holes for the kitchen sink and other features at this stage.
Installation
Installing granite countertops occurs over several steps:
- Old countertops get removed, and new base cabinets installed if part of the project.
- The team inspects and cleans the cabinets and makes any adjustments.
- After final measurements, the granite pieces are secured to the cabinets with adhesive, screws, and sealant.
- For seams between granite pieces, the edges get polished before clamping the sections together.
- The installers apply a color-matched filler to the seams for an imperceptible finish.
- Sinks and accessories like soap dispensers get installed and secured.
- Excess adhesive and marble dust get thoroughly cleaned.
- Finally, technicians apply a sealant to waterproof and protect the countertops.
The process typically takes several days based on the project scope. The kitchen remains unusable during this time. Proper planning prevents frustrations and mistakes.
Cost Breakdown
What is the typical cost breakdown for granite countertops? Expect to budget for:
- Granite slabs – $50-100 per square foot, the biggest expense
- Edge treatments – $10-15 per linear foot for decorative borders like ogee and chamfer
- Sink cutouts and accessories – $50-250
- Installation – $40-100 per hour (more for complex jobs)
- Sealing and Finishing – $3-8 per square foot
- Taxes – Varies by location
In total, expect to invest $80-$250 per square foot for granite countertops installed. Prices depend on the granite variety, edge treatments, and installation complexity. Luxury granites run higher. Always get an itemized estimate before approving the project.
FAQ About Granite Countertops
What are the differences between granite and marble?
While both natural stones, granite is significantly harder and more durable than marble. Granite better resists staining, etching, scratches and heat. However, marble offers more variety in colors and artistic veining patterns.
How often does granite need to be sealed?
New granite should be sealed upon installation and then every 1-2 years to maintain the protective barrier. Frequent wiping with a stone cleaner that contains sealer helps prolong the effectiveness between applications.
Will my granite have visible seams?
Small seams between granite slabs are unavoidable but should be tightly fitted and filled to minimize visibility. Using matching pieces cut from the same slab helps disguise seams. Professional installation is vital.
Can granite chip or crack?
Like any natural stone, granite can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Cracks are rare in granite since it flexes before breaking. Proper installation and care reduce any risk of damage. Sealant also helps strengthen the surface.
What is the best way to clean granite?
Use a specially formulated stone cleaner or a mild detergent and warm water applied with soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads and powders that could scratch the surface. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.
Conclusion
Granite countertops provide a smart, valuable investment that enhances kitchens with natural elegance. While the initial cost exceeds some other materials, the durability and easy-care of granite offer long-term savings. Few other countertop options match the resale value, heat and stain resistance of high-quality granite.
Choosing that perfect granite ultimately comes down to aligning your aesthetic tastes with performance needs. Softer white and black granites exude refined sophistication, while browns, blues, and golds create stunning natural artworks full of depth and texture. Settling on the right granite variety results in gorgeous, functional kitchen countertops you will admire for decades.
