Feeling Silly--dark Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s most durable?

Yep, I feel like a dunce. I was all set to get Ivory Fantasy until I got the price. It was a high end Stone (http://g603.net) . I would've gone ahead and (http://maplered.com) paid for it if I really LOVED it, but I decided that I didn't really LOVE it, especially when it was considered a softer Stone (http://g603.net) . I looked at a lot of kitchens that had medium stained cabinets, and (http://maplered.com) light Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s, and (http://maplered.com) I wasn't thrilled with how they looked.

On the other hand (http://maplered.com) , I really really like medium cabs with DARK Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s. It just seems to pop! The dark Granite (http://tanbrown.org) that we were interested in was Black Galaxy. The gold flecks really look nice with the cabinets. We are going back to the Stone (http://g603.net) yard tomorrow to focus on dark Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s. What dark Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s should I pay attention to in terms of hardness, durability, etc. I do know that dark Granite (http://tanbrown.org) s show fingerprints/ smudges, etc. That is not my issue as much as long term durability. My cabinets are quartersawn white oak in a burnished stain. I would say it is a redish/gold color.

I am going to Boston Granite Exchange, so we'll see what they have. I did read that labrador antique was fragile (and (http://maplered.com) pricey).

Thank you all so much for your help. I really value the input I got regarding ivory fantasy.

Thanks again,
April