I probably won't offer much insight, but wanted to help you bump your post. Here's some things to consider. You mention dismissing soapstone out of hand because your GC doesn't like it. That shouldn't matter. He/she dislikes it because of scratching issues? Does that mean that you actually don't like it because your GC said it would scratch? I'm sensing that perhaps you are concerned with using any material that may show wear? I would recommend that if you are truly still on the fence, draw up a list (not just in your head, but written down somewhere), and identify features/characteristics that you value. Get your hubby involved, too. Include things like "bullet-proof" and "pretty." Then, the both of you rank the importance of each characteristic. If nothing else, this thought exercise can help you order the decisions you face.

Strongly recommend Bucks county soapstone, and you are not so far away that you cannot visit - they have a great shop and will show you everything - and, their website has lots of great information. We are very happy with our countertops from them. My best advice is to deal with someone who specializes in soapstone as lots of others have posted about problems iwth contractors or stone yards used to dealing with granite etc who did not go a great job with soapstone. Regarding using it, we picked it because it WAS NOT granite - we prefer the non-shiny, matte finish, like the lovely veins in our soapstone and the feel of it. I had expected to keep it oiled but actually really like it gray as well. So, like others, we sometimes oil for company. we have an undermount sink (kohler cast iron) and got a slightly recessed drain board instead of runnells. Using it is great - you can put any hot pot on it without worry, frozen items defrost really fast. I have dropped a few heavy things on it and gotten a tiny ding but i cannot see it and esp when oiled, never see it. do not get rings or anything that cannot be wiped out. and it does not stain (we had laminate before it and it both got dings and stains and was not heat proof) Back to bucks country, they were a pleasure to*w ork with, very patient and understanding with my crazy, picky questions, real craftmen - good luck and welcome to the Soapstone Club! L

Thank you so much Pluckymama. That is a great help (and you are right, they do look great). I am off tomorrow to see a few more slabs of SS (Minas and Beleza) and will take another look at the Nordic Black. The Mumbai Grey SS that I took a sample of is doing the same watermark thing you are experiencing (and wow, the mineral oil only holds for a day at most). Soapstone International has told me it has to do with the finish (which they 400 grit, but that sounded kind of crazy considering). As I was thinking about the watermark issue, I just wondered if anyone has tried carnuba wax? I say this because it is used on cars (stay with me), and on the glossy coating of candy (like M&Ms). My thinking? Food grade, OK. And if it buffs to the point that it protects car exteriors, it is obviously durable.

Actually a faucet is one of the easier kitchen items to change out. (Compared to counters, cabinets, floors, etc.). Suggest you find a Moen or Delta pull-down that you like and go with that. Both are reliable brands, they stand behind their products, and will work with your budget. If you find a few styles you like, share that info here and I'm sure you'll get plenty of help making the selection.