With the possible exception of marble, no stone says "upscale" more effectively than granite.  It’s rich, deep luster and beautiful patterns and colors leave a powerful impression.

Still, there is something to be said for shopping around, not only for the right granite for your application but also to be sure granite is the stone you want.  There are, after all, other choices.  For example, marble can be a good option for small areas where wear and tear is minimal.  Limestone countertops can add warmth to a room, and some limestone varieties are quite hard, so they resist scratches almost as well as granite.   And you shouldn’t be afraid to mix and match.  You can actually add to the beauty of a kitchen, for instance, by using more than one kind of stone.

But if it has to be granite — and no one would blame you for picking granite — there are some things you can do to make the choice easier and more likely to be best.  Following a few steps can help you save time, money and frustration.

First, get an estimate.  Granite is not cheap and prices vary quite widely depending on the quality of the stone.  You can obtain an estimate by asking the fabricator to come to your home.  This is not a bad way to do it, as most fabricators will perform the service free of charge.  However, you can also measure the space yourself.  Just use a drawing (as close to scale as possible) and a tape measure.  It might not be perfectly accurate, but it will give the fabricator enough information to go on.  The fabricator will measure again anyway.

Second, choose your granite.  Armed with your drawing, you can go to a granite supplier, who is most likely also the fabricator, and pick the material you like.  You’ll probably find that you have many choices and that they range in price from around $50 to well over $100 per square foot.  It’s a good idea to check out the supplier by asking friends or relatives who have used the same one or doing a little Internet research.

Third, figure out how you want the granite countertops finished.  You can choose among different thicknesses, edge styles, sink mounts and surface finishes.  This part of the process could be confusing, so it’s wise to consult with the fabricator.  Just remember that you can select from among top-mounted or under-mounted sink options; straight, rounded or bullnose edging (you can also go for a custom edge, but it will cost you more); 2-centimeter or 3-centimeter thickness; and polished, satin or honed finishes (other finishes are also available, so ask).

Finally, be sure you know how to care for your granite countertops.  Granite is a porous stone, so it requires periodic sealing with a product like Rock Doctor Granite Sealer.  Cleaning granite countertops and polishing granite countertops are also important, and Rock Doctor offers Granite Cleaner and Granite Polish for those purposes.