Some granite slabs are dyed or treated with resin and can't be left in direct sunlight for an extended period. The stone itself never fades. The problem is managed simply by having the top slab in a bundle turned in. I have never had an instance of granite fading in a home. I have had instances of dark quartz colors fading. Some stone have mineral components that will oxidize and darken over time after they are cut from the block and then polished. Normally the length of time from quarry to market is enough for that oxidation to occur so it only shows up as lighter edges when the stone is processed into countertops. Fabricators have products they use to darken up the edges.

I design and build a lot of kitchens but to me this is personel preference.You are the one that has to look at it every day and nobody on the internet can help you make that decision.I really like what you have picked but it's hard to tell without seeing what goes with it?

Hi all! Through a series of very random events, we are building a semi-custom home with a builder who is not super local to us. Their designer makes selections and generally we find them locally and approve them or request changes. The shop sent over this one option without a description, and I was hoping someone could help us ID this countertop so we can try to find something similar or at least Google what it looks like installed. I know we can wait until they open Monday, but patience is not my virtue.

Unfortunately, the countertop materials that are traditionally "minimal care" are also not known to be heat resistant. Quartz is minimal care but can still be damaged from heat like Corian. Granite is more heat resistant, but most types need sealed to prevent stains. Marble can etch. Soapstone is not thermally reactive, but some people find the maintenance bothersome. (Imho, soapstone is the perfect counter material for me but it's not for everyone and that's ok.) Always a good idea to use trivets and protect the counter no matter what the material, as it's a very costly replacement when bad things inevitably happen. Trust no crock pot or instapot.