Granite countertops have been a popular presence in homes since the early 1990s, when prices for the natural stone became more affordable. Whether its kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops and even outdoor surfaces, granite is one of the most popular choices amongst homeowners. These natural stone countertops can be found in a variety of colors and styles, and are made of one of the most durable materials you can have in your home. Granite countertops are heat resistant, scratch resistant, stain resistant and are low maintenance. All you will need to do is clean, re-apply a sealant around once every year and polish to keep the surfaces in good shape.

Another benefit that you will receive from granite countertops is the price: The surfaces are among the least expensive options you can find. On average, granite countertops cost between $32 to $75 per square foot.

Marble countertops are beloved by many homeowners for their classic and timeless appeal. Much like granite, these surfaces come in a range of colors and styles. You certainly will not be limited when it comes to choosing marble countertops. These elegant surfaces are very durable, but do require more maintenance than granite. Considering the benefits you can receive from the natural stone, the maintenance can be well worth it.

Although high-end options can be a bit pricey and the stone is known for its elegance, you will be able to find marble countertops that are reasonably priced. The average cost of marble countertops is between $40 to $100 per square foot.

Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces. The countertops are made by combining roughly 90 percent ground quartz with about 10 percent polyresin, although these numbers will differ slightly depending on the brand (Caesarstone, Silestone, etc.). While this is the case, do not be fooled into thinking these countertops are of lesser quality than natural stone. In fact, because they are manufactured, quartz countertops can be made to mimic the look of natural stone, among many other color and style options you can find. Quartz countertops are stylish, durable and low maintenance – all qualities that help make them one of the most popular options among today’s homeowners.

In terms of price, quartz falls in the middle ground between affordable and expensive. It will ultimately depend on the factors mentioned previously. The surfaces tend to fall in the range of $50 to $120 per square foot.

If you are looking for a darker colored countertop and something that looks more modern in style, slate may be the perfect choice for you. These durable surfaces come in a beautiful range of darker grays. Slate countertops are heat resistant, stain resistant and anti-bacterial.

Slate also falls in the middle ground when it comes to cost. Some options are more affordable, while others are quite pricey. The average cost of slate countertops is between $50 to $200 per square foot.

Soapstone countertops are soft to the touch and can be found in a gorgeous range of dark greens and grays. One of the unique properties of this natural stone is its ability to darken on its own over time. If this is something that appeals to you, then you should certainly consider soapstone countertops. In addition, if you want to speed up the darkening process, you can treat the surfaces with mineral oil. While the material is prone to scratching, these scratches can easily be sanded out.

Soapstone countertops tend to cost between $55 to $100 per square foot.

Many homeowners who like the look of marble countertops but want a material that requires less maintenance opt for quartzite countertops. These surfaces can be found in many colors and styles; some styles look so much like marble that the stone gets mistaken for being a slab of marble. From the elegant colors and veins of the stone to its durability and many other positive qualities, it is no surprise that quartzite countertops are beloved by homeowners.

The lower end of quartzite’s average price range is a little higher than that of marble, although there is some overlap between the two similar-looking materials. On average, quartzite countertops cost between $60 to $120 per square foot.

Limestone countertops can add a feeling of light and life to your space. In addition, this versatile natural stone can be used as many other home applications, including backsplashes and bathtub surrounds. While limestone countertops are not the best choice for high-traffic areas like the kitchen, the surfaces are great for rooms like the bathroom. That said, you can install limestone countertops in your kitchen, but you will need to be very careful around them.

For limestone countertops, expect to pay about $70 to $200 per square foot.

If you want a countertop that is truly breathtaking and unique, onyx may be just what you are looking for. The stone is among the rarest materials you can find and will incorporate stunning beauty into your home. Since the surfaces are translucent, onyx countertops can be backlit, which will enhance the appearance of your surface by highlighting the color and patterns present in the stone. Your onyx countertop is sure to become the focal point of any room it is in.

Because it is a rarer material, onyx tends to be on the pricier side. You should prepare to pay between $75 to $250 per square foot on average.

Gemstone is another rare material you can choose for your countertops. If you are looking for a countertop that resembles a work of art, gemstone can be the perfect option for you. These elegant surfaces come in a range of colors and styles, and are also very durable.

If you are looking for an inexpensive countertop option, gemstone will not be suitable for you. The surfaces generally start at around $75 per square foot, with many types of the stone priced much higher.

Travertine countertops are similar to limestone. This is mostly due to the fact that travertine is a form of limestone, although the two names should not be used interchangeably. There are some distinct differences between the two materials. Travertine countertops are not the best choice for a high-traffic areas like the kitchen, but the surfaces are great for bathrooms and lower traffic areas. However, you can install travertine countertops in the kitchen, but you will need to be very careful.

Travertine countertops generally cost between $45 to $75 per square foot.

If you are looking to achieve a modern style, glass countertops are a perfect fit for your space. Beyond their beauty, these surfaces are very durable. In addition to countertops, you can also use glass for other surfaces, like backsplashes. Glass countertops are resistant to stains, scratches and heat, which make them a great option for the kitchen.

Glass countertops will typically cost between $50 to $70 per square foot.