i always laugh when I see this question come up because I feel like the bearer of bad news. I do not advise marble countertops for a kitchen ever. Especially if you are a messy cook, this is not the material for you. Etching, water marks, chips, and stains are all a reality. I know the look, it's beautiful. i don't know why so many people use it, i think they just don't know its problems or they feel they can live with them. There are a few other choices that will give you a similar look. Consider Bianco Ramano, Pearl White, or Cesarstone. Another option is to go with black granite countertops and use Carrera tiles in the backsplash. This is also a great look.

Hope that helps. Charmean Neithart