It is really helpful to read the "Stone Information and Advice & Checklists" thread which is linked in the "Read Me if You're New to GW Kitchens" thread. The "Stone" thread covers just about everything. I'll link it directly here.

Here is a link that might be useful: Stone Information and Advice Thread

Bring a camera to take pics of the different slabs you like with your cabinet sample. Bring a sample of your flooring, especially important if it's not wood. Bring a marking pen so that if you find a slab you're going to purchase, you can mark your name on the back. Have fun!!

I'm going to pick out flooring after I pick the granite since it's far less important to me. I'm just going with ceramic tile, not looking for anything spectacular, just something neutral which won't compete with anything else in the kitchen.

@ Always, thanks for reminding me about that link. I'll go over there to read through it right now.

Oh and I'm grabbing a big black marker from the supply room at the office right now!

Hi siv...

So exciting! The yards we went to let us go out on our own and yes...run amuck..

I had a whole list of names of slabs that I wanted to check out. I ended up just going from slab to slab, like looking at artwork in a museum. I only referred to my list if I came across something that I thought would work, just to see if it was on the list. What I ended up with was not on my list, but what stole my heart.

Are you going to more than one slab yard? I went to 3 before I found mine.

Please post about what happens...And Good Luck!

KA:)

1. Bring any samples of cabinet, flooring, that you plan to use.

2. Bring a camera and a notepad. Make notes about the photos and write down the name and size of the slabs.

3. Bring your kitchen drawings, with dimensions. Most kitchens will need two slabs for the entire countertop Measure the general linear feet of countertop and the size of any island to give the granite yard a better idea of whether you need one or two.

4. Have a general idea about whether you want drama or movement or would prefer a more uniform stone pattern.

5. Ask about cracks or flaws. Stay away from those with big crystals in them, or big mica-like pieces, they shatter like glass when being cut and can be unpleasantly fragile.

5. Don't be afraid to "go outside of the box". You may find something truly inspiring that wasn't your initial thought. I'm convinced my honed granite is the most beautiful thing on the planet, yet I went in thinking I was going to want a polished surface.

Thanks so far!

I already know I want something "quiet", little movement. My initial plan had been to use Ceasarstone in a honed finish, but I'm not quite sold on it yet, hence my visit to the stone yard. I also know I'm looking for light colors; white or tan/beige and, possibly not want polished this time around.

I know my rocks pretty well. I've been working for architects for over 30 years and we always have samples of various stones in the office. Just the other day I impressed one of my co-workers when I walked by and off-handidly told him the name of the granite he was holding. He couldn't believe I knew it lol.

At the moment, I'm only going to one yard because most are only open mornings on the weekends around me, and I can't take time off on weekdays right now. Going to make the most of it!

Everyone had great ideas.
I will add.

HAVE FUN!!!!

~boxerpups

Thanks!

The best part is taking my BF, who has never been to one of these places before. I think he's going to be overwhelmed :p