If you haven't already, I suggest posting this on the "Discussions" side of Kitchens. This is the "Conversations" side that's for off-topic, general conversation types of topics. 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!

The seam in my granite counter is also in the middle of the sink. It's the way to get the shortest seam. You don't even see the part behind the faucet. I don't know about marble, but granite seams are sealed with epoxy. I don't think there is an issue with water splashing. The chips are another matter. The stone shouldn't be chipped before it's even put on. That should be addressed. If the chips aren't too big, they may be able to be smoothed down. If they're big, then you shouldn't have to accept it. So yes, I'd make a big fuss about it.

kelleg69, I really like that quartz! I just looked it up and of course the nearest distributor is 3 hours away in Dallas (same as the Quartzmasters). I guess I'm going to just have to make another trip. I don't know if the Chinese produced quartz uses the Breton technology everyone seems to talk about on this website. So I don't know what happens if they don't. Here is the link to the pendants, I ordered them a few weeks ago when they were 30% off and free shipping! http://www.horchow.com/Regina-Andrew-Design-Camden-Five-Light-Lantern-Pendants/cprod105150007_cat23930743__/p.prod?icid=&searchType=EndecaDrivenCat&rte=%252Fcategory.jsp%253FitemId%253Dcat23930743%2526pageSize%253D120%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D&eItemId=cprod105150007&cmCat=product

Tanks to all for the feedback. oldbat2be, I will be using 12 x 24 size. I am sorry I do not understand footprint/space thing? Do you mind explaining? Thank you, Mindy