MARBLE
Natural Marble is a timeless and classic stone that has been used as countertops for many years. The flowing veins, earth tone colors and natural beauty fit into just about any style or décor. Although marble makes a beautiful countertop, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. Marble is porous and fairly soft, therefore can scratch and stain. Also, marble will etch when exposed to acidic products like wine, lemon, vinegar, etc. Consider these drawbacks when using marble for your countertop material, especially in the kitchen. Honed finished marble can help minimize the effects of etching and hide some of the wear over time.
Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. The characteristic swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties are usually due to various mineral impurities within the stone.
Marble is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. Marble can also scratch and etch, so be aware of the maintenance concerns before using in a kitchen.