With stunning swirls of color, natural tones and one-of-a-kind patterns, granite makes a gorgeous, durable surface for kitchen counters and beyond. But with so many granite countertop types available, how do you choose the perfect slabs for your space?
Before you visit a countertop store, this comprehensive guide covers different granite types ranging from dramatic black granite to light grays, plus popular finishes like matte and glossy. See how white granite countertops can brighten a space while brown granite countertops adds warmth. Learn how to pair different granite colors with your cabinetry. Let’s explore the myriad granite countertop options to find your dream stone!
Granite’s natural beauty and timeless appeal make it a coveted countertop material, but the wealth of granite colors, patterns and finishes available can be overwhelming. With a wide spectrum of granite types from inky black galaxy granite to sunny yellow stone, how do you choose? This guide will walk you through the many unique colors and characteristics of popular granite types and recommend pairings with cabinetry finishes. You’ll learn the difference between matte and glossy granite. Bringing home the perfect granite slabs tailored for your kitchen will be easy and enjoyable!
Popular Types of Granite Countertops
Here is an overview of common granite varieties organized by color:
White Granite Countertops
Crisp white granite pairs beautifully with light wooden cabinets for an airy look:
- White Ice – Aptly named, this nearly pure brilliant white granite has only the faintest wisps of pale gray veining running through it. The minimal patterns and ultra-light color palette keep the look fresh and contemporary. White Ice granite pairs wonderfully with sleek modern cabinets in lacquered white or light wood tones. Its bright white canvas lets you add pops of color through accent tiles or appliances.
- Colonial White – This subtly marbled white granite features fine ripples of gray veining that resemble clouds drifting across a white sky. The natural yet muted patterns give it an understated elegance fitting for transitional spaces that blend traditional and contemporary elements. Colonial White granite complements Shaker-style cabinets in painted white or warm wood stain.
- Crystal White – As its name suggests, Crystal White granite gleams with a polished, luminous quality. Areas of solid bright white are mixed with swirls of gray and taupe for added dimension. The overall look is refined and opulent, perfect for ultra-luxe traditional kitchens. Crystal White granite makes a statement paired with ornate raised-panel cabinets in an ultra-white paint or a muted gray stain.
Light Gray Granite
These softer dark gray and granites nicely complement painted cabinets:
- Steel Gray – True to its name, Steel Gray granite blends cool steel blue and gray tones for a sleek modern look. Black flecks sprinkle across the stone like metal sparks. The overall vibe is refined urban charm. Steel Gray pairs gorgeously with matte gray or navy kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances.
- Luna Pearl – This granite gets its name from its softly glowing beige-gray background with rippling accents of blue, brown, and black that evoke a moonlit tide. Luna Pearl’s elegance suits transitional kitchens that mix traditional details like beadboard cabinets with modern elements like an exposed brick backsplash.
- Atlantic Gray – With its weathered look of blue-gray swirled with smoky brown, white, and black, Atlantic Gray aptly calls to mind craggy Atlantic coastline stones polished smooth by the sea. The varied blend of cool and warm undertones gives Atlantic Gray wide design flexibility. Use it to bridge vintage farmhouse cabinets and contemporary track lighting.
Dark Gray & Black Granite
Inky dark grays and black granite make a dramatic accent against light cabinetry:
- Absolute Black – This aptly named granite represents the deepest end of the dark spectrum with its matte black base sporadically marked by faint ribbons of gray veining. Absolute Black’s severe sophistication is ideal for modern kitchens with lacquered white or gray cabinets and stainless steel.
- Ubatuba – Prized for its brilliant green accents, Ubatuba granite features a primarily black background with vibrant emerald veins and white marbling for an exotic flair. Originally quarried in coastal Brazil, Ubatuba granite brings a tropical punch to contemporary spaces with its bold contrast.
- Apollo Grey – Apollo Grey granite has an urban sleekness with its dark charcoal background and white, gray, and black patterning reminiscent of a cityscape. The stone’s dynamic movement plays beautifully against solid matte white or black cabinetry. Apollo Grey creates modern flair.
Brown Granite Countertops
Warm brown granite types complement medium and high temperatures with dark wooden cabinetry:
- Cappuccino – True to its name, Cappuccino granite features a rich light brown base swirled with ribbons of cream, black, and burgundy reminiscent of the layers of a cappuccino coffee drink. The stone’s creamy depth pairs wonderfully with maple cabinets and butcher block countertops.
- Honey Amber – This inviting granite gets its name from base tones of caramel and amber, warmed up by marbling of beige, brown, and gray that calls to mind drizzling honey. Honey Amber’s versatility allows it to work in both traditional cottage-style kitchens as well as sleek contemporary spaces.
- Leathered Earth – The velvety matte texture of this granite looks remarkably like worn leather, enhanced by its deep coffee-colored background with black mineral deposits. Leathered Earth brings organic drama. Pair it with walnut cabinets and hardwood floors.
Beige & Cream Granite
Buttery beiges and creams pair well with stained cabinets and warm wood floors:
- Beachside – Warm sandy beige with fiery orange and smoky gray veining. Coastal flair.
- Champagne Crema – Buttery yellow-beige with wisps of brown and black.
- Peach Sunrise – Soft creamy background with ribbons of peach, pink and brown.
Blue Granite
Blues from the pale sky to deep azure make an elegant counter accent:
- Blue Eyes – Soothing blue-gray with black spatters and white wispy patterns.
- Blue Fantasy – Vibrant royal blue with accents of gray, tan, and black mineral deposits.
- Blue Pearl – Dramatic navy blue with striking glints of gold sparkling throughout.
Green Granite
Verdant green granite varieties range from sage to emerald hues:
- Mint Vue – Pale green with dark forest green and white mottling. Crisp and lively.
- Jade – Sage green background with vibrant orange and reddish brown veining.
- Verde Ubatuba – Vivid emerald green heavily accented with white and black. Tropical punch.
Yellow Granite
Sunny yellow granite counters brighten up any kitchen:
- Santa Cecilia Light – Vivid butter yellow with swirls of white and gray. Cheerful cottage charm.
- Tuscan Sun – Rich golden yellow with orange, brown, and black accents reminiscent of a sunset. Warm and welcoming.
- New Venetian Gold – Bright golden yellow with dramatic irregular white and black veining. Shining beauty.
Multi-Color Granite
Many granite slabs feature a bold mélange of multiple colors:
- Rainforest Green – Lush mixture of sage green, caramel, and smoky grays shot through with black.
- Persa Flora – Vibrant blend of purple, magenta, mint green, and white for an artistic vibe.
- Midnight Pearl – Inky background punctuated with flashes of gold, silver, burgundy, and emerald.
With the stunning range of natural granite colors and unique patterns, you can find the perfect slabs to complement your kitchen style!
How to Choose Granite Color Based on Your Cabinets
Based on the 2023 Houzz study of kitchen interior design and trends, medium brown and beige granite colors are most popular for new kitchen installations.
Selecting granite countertops that pair attractively with your existing cabinetry results in a cohesive kitchen look.
White Cabinets
White cabinetry allows you to choose dramatic dark, countertops and accents or light granite for seamless flow.
- Black Galaxy granite – Inky black with bright white and gold sparkles
- Colonial White – Subtly marbled soft white
- Steel Grey – Cool gray and blue tones
Light Wood Cabinets
Cabinets in light oak or maple offer flexibility in pairing more medium-toned granites.
- Luna Pearl – Sophisticated beige-gray granite with blue accents
- Beachside – Sandy beige with fiery orange and gray swirls
- Jade – Organic-looking sage green with warm brown and red veining
Espresso Cabinets
Deep, dark espresso cabinets invite pairing with rich, vivid granites.
- Azul Platino – Brilliant midnight blue with silvery gray
- Raspberry Rum – Regal purple with pops of ruby red
- Emerald Pearl – Vibrant green and black swirls
Gray Cabinets
For contemporary gray cabinets, grays, blacks, and whites create an elegant monochrome look.
- Steel Gray granite – Matching blue-gray stone with white wisps
- Thunder White granite – Crisp white with faint gray marbling
- Nero Marquina marble – Sophisticated, inky black with fine white veining
Warm Wood Cabinets
Cabinets in maple, cherry, or mahogany work well with brown, beige, and cream granite.
- Honeycomb – Beige with warm golden brown and black veining
- Cappuccino – Milk chocolate and coffee-colored stone
- Peach Sunrise – Soft creamy background with peach swirls
Evaluate cabinet finish, flooring, backsplashes, and overall kitchen decor when selecting the ideal granite color. The options are endless!
Granite Finishes: Matte vs. Glossy
Beyond just color, the surface finish impacts the look of granite countertops too. Two popular options include:
Matte Finish
- Has a subtle sheen and smooth yet softly textured feel
- Provides a bit of natural grip helpful for rolling out dough and pastry
- Mutes patterns and colors slightly compared to high-gloss
- Helps hide fingerprints and watermarks
- Works well in traditional, rustic, or farmhouse kitchens
Glossy Finish
- Reflective, mirror-like shine when polished
- Makes colors pop with deep, intense tones
- Feels ultra-smooth to the touch
- Requires diligent cleaning to avoid streaks and smudges showing
- Has a dramatic, opulent effect, especially on darker granite
- Suits contemporary and modern kitchen styles
The finish you prefer comes down to your kitchen decor and personal tastes. Both matte and glossy finishes offer durability and flair!
Caring for Granite Countertops
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), proper installation is key to ensuring natural stone countertops like granite last for many years.
To maintain the beauty of natural granite surfaces:
- Clean frequently with a granite-safe cleaner and microfiber cloth. Blot spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Reseal every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer to protect from moisture and acids.
- Use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pans on the counters. Don’t cut directly on the surface.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and acids like vinegar, ammonia, or abrasive scrubs.
- Micro scratches and dulled areas can be restored by professional refinishing.
Following granite care best practices ensures your countertops stay looking like new for decades.
With the unlimited options, choosing granite countertops can feel overwhelming initially. But armed with knowledge of the most popular granite colors, patterns, and finishes, you can focus on finding the perfect slabs for your home. Understanding how to pair different granite types with your cabinetry eliminates guesswork. Before you know it, you’ll have stunning, durable granite countertops that become a focal point of your kitchen for years of cooking and memories.
Here are some additional sections on granite countertop types using the suggested keywords:
How Lighting Impacts Granite Countertop Colors
The interplay of natural and artificial light can make the same granite slab look distinctly different. Here are some tips on lighting when selecting a granite slab:
- View potential granite slabs in both morning and afternoon light. The color tones may vary based on the time of day.
- Look at slabs under various artificial lighting like LED or halogen bulbs. Incandescent and fluorescent light also impacts color.
- Hold lighter granite color samples against cabinetry and flooring under both natural sunlight and indoor light. The contrast may change.
- Glossy polished surfaces tend to amplify and deepen colors under lighting compared to matte finishes.
- Illumination draws out the dazzling depth, dimension, and natural patterns inherent in granite. Proper lighting boosts granite’s aesthetic appeal.
Be sure to preview granite slabs under the actual lighting conditions of your kitchen or bathroom space before finalizing a selection. This ensures you get the truest sense of the granite type, color and appearance.
Why Granite Countertops Are an Ideal Choice
Granite offers many benefits that make it a coveted countertop material:
- Available in a vast array of natural colors and earthy tones to suit any design style
- Resists heat damage from hot pots and pans due to being completely non-porous
- Stands up to heavy daily use and high-traffic areas while still looking beautiful
- Offers a smooth polished surface that is easy to clean and maintain
- Provides a luxurious visual warmth and texture with natural patterns unique to each slab
- Adds instant elegance and value to kitchens and bathrooms with its prestigious reputation
- Comes in more durable lighter grays and whites that resist staining compared to darker granites
- Creates an inviting atmosphere and welcoming atmosphere for cooking, dining, and mingling
With proper care, granite countertops are built to last for many years of cooking, cleaning, and living. Their endless options for colors, patterns, and finishes make granite countertops an ideal surface for nearly any home’s aesthetic.
How to Estimate Granite Countertop Costs
When budgeting a granite countertop installation, be sure to get a free estimate accounting for:
- Type of granite selected, which impacts cost per square foot
- Overall square footage needed for all countertop runs
- Any specialty edging or engravings desired
- Complexity of installation including cutouts for sinks and appliances
While costs vary based on these factors, as a general guideline for materials and professional fabrication, expect to pay:
- $50 – $100 per square foot for most common granite types and standard edges
- $100 – $250+ per square foot for rare, high-end granite varieties and special edging/engraving
- $35 – $100 per linear foot for installation and cutouts
Replacing outdated countertops with elegant new granite can update the whole look of your kitchen or bathroom. Be sure to get a detailed estimate tailored to your specific project. Investing in quality granite pays dividends for years through added everyday enjoyment, functionality, and home value.
In Summary
Renovating your kitchen with new granite countertops opens up amazing possibilities. Will you choose inky dark galaxy granite for dramatic sophistication? Opt for sunny Santa Cecilia yellow granite to infuse cheer? Or select classic white granite for an airy, coastal vibe?
With hundreds of unique natural stone patterns and colors to browse, the options may seem endless. But this guide has armed you with knowledge of popular granite types in every hue and finish so you can focus your search. You now understand how to select slabs in lighter colors that beautifully complement your existing cabinetry. You’ve learned the difference between matte and glossy finishes to suit your style.
The exciting process of finding the perfect granite slabs and seeing them transformed into your new counters begins now. Rely on the tips here as you view stone samples and full granite slabs in person to make an informed decision. The knowledge you’ve gained removes the stress and guesswork from the process. Soon you’ll be enjoying coffee and conversation around your stunning new granite-topped kitchen island that matches your home’s decor and spirit. That feeling is priceless.
