Laminate soapstone is a great countertop.

Try StonTech by Floor Gres (manufactured in Italy) which is a porcelain tile. They have two blacks if I remember correctly and are available in 16 x 16, 24 x 24, and 16 x 32 among other sizes. These are nominal as they are metric-based (for example the 16" is actually 40 CM which is around 15 3/8 if memory serves).

Here is a link that might be useful: Floor Gres StonTech 1.0 collection

I actually caught myself looking at formica basalt slate laminate in Home Depot the other day thinking *This is nice! Take out the integrated backsplash and it's almost ... *, so I agree with honeysucklevine that laminates that mimic dark stone are worth a look.

Hmmmm - my message didn't post.

Look at crossville tile, they have some beautiful matte tiles, some look like stone. They come in 12x12, 18x18 and some 24x24.

Also look in to soapstone tiles, they can be installed in a way that makes them look like a solid surface, so pretty.

Here is a link that might be useful: Ikea fans soapstone link

Here's a link to the pictures and process they used.

Here is a link that might be useful: Soap stone tile counter top

Thanks for all the suggestions. Jenellecal, I had no idea soapstone could be purchased as a tile. I will check that out. I've looked at the laminates mentioned by honeysuckle and brickton. I love them...especially the soapstone look-alike. However, DH fears burning laminate somehow. He is a serious cook. I checked out the crossville tiles. Here is one I like that comes in 24 x 24. What do you all think? Would it make a nice countertop if we go in that direction? {{!gwi}}

If the goal is to put things on the countertop without a trivet, then go for tiles and get advice for the best grout match.

Try seconds and surplus. They usually have the best prices, we buy tile from them all the time.