Marble Fabricator Tips: Best Marble Kitchen Countertop Types & Finishes

Marble adds a touch of sophistication to any space. It also matches well with any type of home decor.

That is why this natural stone is a favourite choice for kitchen countertops. Plus, no two marble slabs are the same as each has its distinctive pattern and colour.

Are you keen to install a marble kitchen countertop at home? Are you overwhelmed by your choices?

As Toronto’s top marble fabricator, we think it’s important to discuss the types of marble and finishes from which you can choose. Indeed, we have a huge inventory and a team of skilled professionals who provide excellent customer service. From material selection to installation, we are with you at every step.

Let’s dive right in.

Which Marble Types & Finishes Are Best for Kitchen Countertops?

Here, we look at the most popular marble types and finishes to help you determine which will work best for your marble kitchen countertop.

Types of Marble 

Different types of marble may be formed when various minerals are compacted under tremendous pressure and heat. That’s why each marble type has a distinct pattern, colour and durability.

White Marble 

This is one of the popular types of marble because of its timeless beauty and historical significance in world famous art and architecture. Below are the different types of white marble that can be used in countertops.

• Calacatta 

Named after its place of origin in Italy, Calacatta is one of the most luxurious types of Italian marble due to its rarity. Its use dates back to the Renaissance period.

There are nine subcategories of Calacatta, which is often mistaken for Carrara marble due to the similarities in colour. Both are quarried from the same place but there are remarkable differences. For instance, the dark and thick veining of Calacatta is dissimilar to the intricate veining of Carrara. In fact, Calacatta’s luxurious streaked veining gives each slab a unique style that is ideal for any decor style.

• Carrara  

Quarried from Italy’s Alpine region, Carrara marble is a common and affordable white marble. Like Calacatta, it was widely used during the Renaissance period. The loveliness and uniformity of Carrara makes it a perfect option for classic as well as modern kitchen countertops.

• Statuary 

Like Calacatta and Carrara marble, Statuary marble is sourced from the same area and is so named because of its popularity among sculptors. As it is one of the finest marbles available on the market, it is slightly expensive.

This beautiful white marble has unique grey veins that run around its fine background. It adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen and may increase the value of your home.

• Mont Blanc 

Mont Blanc marble, also known as White Mountain, is quarried in Brazil. This incredible stone has a unique combination of white and glossy grey veining. This is reminiscent of the majestic Alpine mountain after which it is named. Each slab has an elegant look that makes it perfect for marble kitchen countertops, floors, and walls in Toronto.

• Dover White 

Dover White (a.k.a. Caribbean Island) is a bright white marble with creamy taupe, charcoal shades, and a fine silver shimmer. Sourced from Brazil, this marble is a favourite of homeowners who want a durable and exotic kitchen countertop. Its stylish patterns and warm colours will illuminate your space, making it an ideal option for kitchen countertops and other indoor appliances.

• Blanco Macael 

Often called white gold, this brilliant white marble with unique speckled bluish veining is named after Macael, a town in the Spanish province of Almeria. This marble is a great option for minimalist designs and is often paired with dark or neutral cabinets. It is widely used in both kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Brown Marble  

Brown marble comes in a variety of shades and can add depth and elegance to your kitchen countertops. It is a good option for a well-lit area and never overshadows your home decor.

• Fantasy Brown  

Fantasy Brown, or Savar, has a unique pattern of grey, black or white with a cream background. It is a favourite choice of those who like bold designs and durability.

This countertop can be paired with a Carrara marble backsplash and wooden cabinets for a chic, contemporary look.

• Dark Emperador 

Sourced from Spain, this popular, stunning marble is rich brown and has white and grey veins.

It has three levels: First, Commercial, and Classic. Each variation has diverse quality levels and price points. For example, first is the most refined and has minimum calcite, while the Classic features a large amount of calcite and white spotting.

This brown marble is a good option for countertops in kitchens or bathrooms with a natural colour palette.

Grey Marble  

If you are looking for a stone with a pleasant and stunning look, grey marble is your best bet.

• Bardiglio 

Also called Bardiglio Scuro, this marble is a rare variety of bluish grey marble. It has white as well as deep grey veins and is sourced from Tuscany, Italy. From a beautiful countertop to a charming backsplash, this marble is sure to create a great impact in your kitchen.

• Marengo Grey 

Quarried in Spain, this marble combines different colours such as deep grey, ivory, and pearl grey. It is a popular option for countertops, flooring, and walls because of its durability and beauty.

Types of Marble Finishes  

Here are the three popular marble finishes you may consider for your kitchen countertop.

Polished Finish 

Also known as high gloss, this is one of the most popular marble finishes. Its shine can be created through a buffing and grinding process that also reveals details of the marble’s veining and colour.

Leathered Finish  

This finish has a soft sheen and leathery texture. It may not be as reflective as a polished finish but looks stunning on dark-coloured marble. Marble countertops with leathered finish are widely used because they hide fingerprints and other imperfections.

Honed Finish  

‘Honed’ is a soft matte finish created by sanding marble until it has a glossy look. It does not show scratches like a polished finish does, but the honing process does open up the marble’s pores, thereby making it susceptible to staining.

These are the different marble types and finishes from which you can choose for your kitchen countertop. Need additional guidance? Contact MaxSpace Stone Works, one of Toronto’s leading marble fabricators. Visit our showroom to view full marble slabs. No more need to rely on colour samples! In this way, you will be able to imagine how the finished product will look in your kitchen.