If it was used to build the Taj, then it is native to India. That might be why you can't find a source for it. You will have to be have a HIGH END stone importer find the stone and bring it in. This will be a "special" special order.

And all marble stains and etches. It is part of it's chemical make up. Good luck. Should cost 3-4 times a readily available slab of marble will cost.

Make sure it's cut by hand, by virgin youths.

Makrana marble is beautiful but it definitely is NOT stain or scratch proof. It (like all marble) is a softer material that can etch with use and will develop a soft patina over time. It is indeed quarried from India, many people say its the Carrara of India. The taj mahal in person is no longer white! With proper sealing and daily care though it will hold up well! Make sure you always use trivets/hot pads and cutting boards too, this will help protect the material :).

If you cant find a local distributor that has it, try looking at carrara (Italian marble), or Georgia White (US/Canada Marble from Polycor's Quarry). These are great local alternatives that are plentiful in the US.

I actually just came back from Agra. For as old as the Taj Mahal is, it's still pretty darned white. They were in the process of cleaning it to remove environmental dirt and pollution. It's still beautiful. I'm just surprised the marble is not available here. Thank you all for your suggestions and expertise.

Makrana is used primarily for carvings. I've never heard of it being available in slabs. But, of course, if money is no object...

Vermont Danby marble is stronger, too. Honed works better. Also, there is a new sealant called MORE than has a twenty year warranty against stains. If you love marble, go for it.

While I love marble, I am not so keen on it in the kitchen if you use turmeric! It does stain, and sealants have limited protection. One scratch and you have a yellow line! So quartz is a good option. If you have visual problems then white is very good, you can see where everything is. I lose my black phone on my black kitchen counter quite regularly. Otherwise a really light granite is ok, though I am not keen on the colour, it reminds me of old salami!

Hi CCG - Did you end up getting Makrana? We are considering it for our project. Thx

No, I was never able to find a source for it. When I visited India, a shop I visited with a guide, assured me they could get it for me, but the logistics of getting it here was a headache. Instead I purchased plates and serving trays with Makrana inlaid with jewels/gems.

ok .. thanks for your feedback.