If it's not too late and you haven't already done so, I suggest posting this on the "Discussions" side of Kitchens. This is the "Gallery" side that's more for finished kitchens and the like. The Discussions side of Kitchens is for on-topic discussions concerning kitchen remodels. You will most likely get many more responses over there. Good luck!

jdknyc, this may be too late to help you, but I'll post it anyway in case you are still looking or someone else wants a darker BS to use with white quartzite. My designer recently recommended Nine Lives from the Crossville Color by Numbers collection. It is a medium-dark gray with bluish tones, and the sample we have really worked with the dark vein colors in the slabs we held it up to. I am not sure if we will use it since I pictured a lighter BS next to our walnut uppers. I think the Nine Lives would look great with your white cabinets and white quartzite. It costs under $4 sq ft (at least with my designer's discount). Here is a link that might be useful: 9 Lives

Hello again everyone! I was so appreciative of everyone’s advice and wanted to circle back to provide an update. We decided to take a chance and replace the quartzite- and we are so much happier with the new result. They cut two pieces instead of three and did them in order from one slab (per the plan- pretty clear they were trying to only use two of our three slabs). I will say the one seam does drive me nuts, but thanks to all of you, I know it is necessary. Lucky, thanks so much for the advice about using something to hide a seam. Again, thank you so very much for all of the responses.

I don’t believe properly sealed polished quartzite is better for stains. As for etching, I believe honed stone is less noticeable. I am actually recommending honing the stone for aesthetic reasons. The effect is very soft, which translates as a warmth.