No worries, everyone. I've been lurking on here for some time and finally decided to post as demolition was completed on Sunday and I must make a decision soon! I love this site and appreciate all the comments. I'm just looking for honest feedback. Something about Granite Shield seemed iffy to me, but since my fabricator recommended it I wanted to check it out. From what I've read here it seems that applying the wrong sealant can ruin your marble, and it sounds like you need to make sure your fabricator uses the same sealant that you plan to apply later yourself. A lot of people seem to speak very highly of 511 on this site. Is this what you would recommend?

Thank you so much Babushka cat! I read all about your counters when I was contemplating my own. There don't seem to be a lot of us creamo delicato owners out there. (I also have an orange & white cat...although I don't think mine would fit in a bowl-he's almost 20lbs!). Was your 511 applied after any other sealer or was that the only product you've used? Any other experiences? Maybe Bill V is still around??

Hi Jason! What a fabulous kitchen you will have! Congratulations! And my oh my, that island with the waterfall edges is stunning! A true show piece that will be functional as well. It is the centerpiece of the home, as well it should be! What a great place for the whole family to gather and be together, over a meal, homework, art projects, games...such a unique space to carry on the traditions that make a house a home. To be honest, I rarely like marble in an application like this. Often, it's way too busy for my taste. I feel like, in many pictures I've seen on this forum, people use too many elements in one kitchen and those elements fight each other to be the focal point, but it ends up having no focal point. You are different. That is the most beautiful piece of marble I've ever seen! Both of them! By not having your perimeter and your island compete with one another, you've got a lovely, unified whole. I hope you'll do a REVEAL when all is finished...I'd love to see the finished kitchen! Have a great day! :-)

I used Miracle 511 on a honed, hand-polished perimeter counter, because I liked the difference it made in the color (enhanced), and the fact that the counter is often used as buffet service. When I did the research, the term being used for the Miracle 511 was impregnator, but sealer is commonly accepted. The honed carrara island top isn't sealed. I roll dough on the counter, and although I've read the chemicals are food-safe, I decided against using one. The marble has etches, where I haven't smoothed them to blend with the honed finish, but no stains. The only stain that was a real challenge to remove was pollen from some Oriental lilies. Just a small stain, but it was bright yellow-gold!