I also went with HONED quartzite. Here is an explanation:

With the new stylistic choice in countertops being light grey and white stones, a multitude of quartzites are the most optimal materials to use. It should be noted that granite countertops differ largely from quartzite and contains flaws you won't see in granite. Many selections to choose from include: Taj Mahal, Sea Pearl, Mother of Pearl, White Macaubas, Fantasy Brown and Symphony. More cream- and beige-colored ones include Nacarado and La Dolce Vita.

Whereas granite is an igneous rock found more abundantly than quartzite, deep in the earth's crust, providing the base for the many continents' sedimentary rock, quartzite consists of a larger volume of quartz than granite; under heat and pressure combined, quartzite is formed from sandstone and quartz, and with the amount of pressure undergone, empty grains of sandstone are stuffed with quartz. This means quartzite is actually harder. On the Mohs scale of hardness, from 1 to 10 with 10 being the hardest, granite measures in at around 6-6.5, and quartzite measures in at approximately 7.
The principle flaw you'll find in quartzite is its tendency to etch in certain areas of countertops. Etching, or cutting and scratching into unprotected surfaces due to acid or other other substances, can be prevented by hone finished stone rather than polish finished. Honed countertops are not reflective, unlike polished, but it's more difficult to polish stone the harder it is. Because honed stone is smoother and flatter than polished, this can help prevent etching. While not as glossy as a polish surface finish, honed surfaces on harder materials are much more durable for quartzite kitchen countertops.

And my kitchen with the quartzite countertop.

Bellburgmaggie - did you install Mont Blanc Quartzite? How has it held up?

How did Mont Blanc work out for you in the kitchen? We are thinking about installing it too but worry about etching

Hi! Did you end up using Aria? I’m thinking about it, but have similar concerns. Thanks!