Get matched with top stone countertop pros in Sutherland, NE

It all comes down to rarity and demand. Granite rocks with unique patterns or rare colorways like red, purple, and blue are more expensive than traditional designs. Some types of blue granite are extremely rare, like Azul Aran and Blue Bahia, driving the price up even further. The most expensive type of all is a unique design called Van Gogh granite. As the name suggests, it sort of looks like a painting. 

Fortunately, there are many types of heatproof countertops. Granite, quartzite, concrete, and stainless steel are all fiery contenders. These surfaces work best in busy kitchens where hot pots, pans, and baking sheets are part of the daily routine. Plus, their durability means you get a long-lasting work surface that won’t flinch at a bit of heat or heavy use. However, many stone and concrete counters require a sealer, which is typically not heatproof.

Engineered quartz is an artificial, nonporous material made from a mix of mined ground quartz, polymer resins, and pigments, making it a lower-maintenance option. In contrast, quartzite is a natural stone composed of sandstone, which makes it highly resistant to heat but often requires sealing and more careful upkeep. You should clean both types of stone with non-abrasive cleaners that have a low or neutral pH, avoiding acidic cleaners like vinegar, as well as wire brushes and scouring pads.

Marble is a porous natural stone that needs sealant to minimize staining. Leaving this type of countertop material sealant-free means any liquids left on the surface will quickly absorb into the stone, discoloring it and dulling the sheen. Dark or acidic liquids, like red wine, coffee, and lemon, are the worst culprits.