Yes. All natural stones can be used for kitchen benchtop applications, although some natural stones perform better than others. Granite and marble (in that order) are the most popular and durable natural stones used in kitchen benchtop applications.
Natural stones are good choices for kitchen benchtops because, when properly sealed, they are non-porous, hard-wearing, easy-to-clean, and enormously wear-resistant to scratches, chemicals, and acid. Although if not correctly sealed, liquids can penetrate the surface, resulting in damages, stains, and material weakening.
Therefore, natural stone kitchen benchtops must be regularly sealed at least once a year to maintain their best appearance, prevent permanent discolouration and allow for easy cleaning without damaging the surface. It’s crucial to realise that natural stones may last a lifetime with proper care, sealing and maintenance. While natural stones develop an organic discolouration over time, this adds to their beauty and distinct nature, giving your kitchen benchtop character.

Engineered stones are man-made stones comprised of 90-95% quartz. In contrast, natural stones like granite and marble are 100% natural and quarried from the earth. Natural stones have various faults and inconsistencies by nature, which adds to their unique characteristics, as each slab is made organically. Natural stone benchtops are ideal if you want a distinctive and one-of-a-kind feature for your home that you can guarantee no one else has, while manufactured stone benchtops are best if you want consistency. Generally, engineered stones are more dense, resilient, and durable. Having said that, natural stones perform very well when cared for properly. In contrast, uniquely natural stone can also be used outdoors… engineered stones cannot.