try quartz instead...you'll love it. It's great for a kitchen

Marble and even travertine are beautiful materials to work with. If you are concerned about a material looking pristine on a daily basis don't even think of going there. The question to ask yourself is if you want the patina that would come from normal use after the material ages. Marbles have been used throughout the ages. Keep in mind that there are times that people want the patina that comes with age which is not easy to replicate. This is a completely personal attitude. It is very much like having a fine leather jacket that shows the "character" of the material best after it has been worn for a while. I would suggest you not being afraid adding your own character to your kitchen. That is something which is truly priceless.

Yes it can be. I've used marble as a countertop material in the past and it really just depends on your cooking habits, whether it's honed vs. polished, periodic sealing and-most of all-a tolerance for inevitable patina. Still, I've known active but careful cooks that have maintained their marble for many years especially as a baking surface.

All of them had something in common-they had another countertop/workspace that was less porous and could tolerate spills, water marks etc. Also they were meticulous in maintaining their kitchen BEFORE ever getting marble. Some people get marble and think there kitchen habits will adjust for the stone but often you have the habits (and family-especially kids) as before.

Its a beautiful material but if the above description doesn't apply to you I'd opt out or use it in another area like a pantry. Have you considered quartzite? It's a natural stone with durability comparable to granite. Its luce di Luna (sp) is quite striking with viening and colors that might suit your needs.

Good luck!