Regarding your sink, some countertop installers like to "sandwich" the sink in between the plywood underlayment and the countertop material. If your sink was installed like that, removing it won't be without issues ... it will need to be cut out from underneath.

I'm not sure what you're asking with questions 2 and 3 ... ? If you are asking for help choosing a backsplash, pictures of your existing materials would likely help.

Roberta:

As jellytoast indicated, the ease or lack thereof of changing your sink depends on how it was installed and the configuration of your tops/splashes.

The plywood would be the worst. Expect to pay $300.00 - $900.00 for labor.

Thanks for posting this--I have been considering one of the light colored granite sinks. I understand exactly what you mean about it looking bad until you get around to cleaning it..that was my problem with stainless and cast iron. I guess I will stick with the darker silgranite color as I love my anthracite one now.
I purchased my pulls from Overstock and I am happy with them.