If you're worried about having choices when it comes to granite countertops, don't. While availability and options may differ depending on where you live and who you hire, you'll no doubt still have plenty to choose from. From color options to edging, you will have several decisions to make when picking out your granite countertop. To prepare you for your future shopping expeditions, here is an overview of some of the choices you'll face.

Granite Color Options

Granite literally is found in hundreds of colors. And this fact is magnified by the natural variances in the pattern of the stone as well. No two slabs that are technically of the same color will be exactly alike. But what are the basic options? There are blacks, browns, reds, greens, and blues, to name a few. The black granites are rarer and therefore more costly. Browns, greens, and blues vary greatly in shade. Many of the green granites are relatively affordable. All granite, no matter what its basic color, will have flecks or swirls of other shades or colors. It's part of the stone itself and what makes it so lovely to look at.

Granite Slab and Tile

While you generally think of granite kitchen countertops being cut from a slab (one continuous piece), granite is also available in tiles, which can be used on countertops. Granite slabs are custom cut and fitted to your kitchen. They require a professional to cut and install the granite due to the specialized tools needed and the sheer weight of the stone. It's never a good idea to try to fabricate or install a granite slab countertop yourself. On the other hand, the granite tiles available today are perfect for those who want to do the work themselves. The tiles can also prove to be much more affordable between the cost of the tiles themselves and the potential to save on labor costs. Granite tiles come fitted with a traditional bullnose edge and a polished finish.

Granite Finishes

While there are four finish options for granite in general, including polished, matte, flamed, or brushed, they are not all created for the same purpose. Each finish works for a different application such as flooring, side walks, and benches. When it comes to granite countertops, the traditional polished finish you see is perfect.

Countertop Edging

Most granite professionals offer several different options for the countertop's edge. Bullnose is the traditional edging that you often see in showrooms. It's a sleek, rounded edge that's been popular for decades. Variations on the bullnose edge include a beveled bullnose, demi bullnose, Dupont bullnose, and a half bullnose. Other edges available may include beveled, ogee, double ogee, imperial, waterfall, and square eased.

You won't have to worry about having too few choices. If anything, you may feel you have too many. Consult with your granite professional to learn about the most popular choices for granite colors and edges, and to get an expert opinion on what would work the best in your kitchen. No doubt you'll appreciate the help in making the final decisions about your granite countertop.