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The Kate pendant does not look too big to me. I would actually hang a mock up of it from the ceiling with a string, and then make sure that your head doesn’t hit it as you work your way around the island. Having had glass pendants above my island for 20 years, I got very used to having to unscrew them to clean the glass. It would get grease on it periodically. And then it would no longer be shiny. My current pendants are solid ceramic and came from West Elm.

"We have 8' ceilings so with a 12" down rod & canopy the bottom of the ( Kate pendant ) light sits 31" above counter.

You can't use the Kate pendant......31 inches is too little clearance bottom of light to counter.

Isn't 30 - 36" from counter a recommened height for pendants?

I think the clearance is fine except for the middle one directly over the sink.

The Kate is lot better with a nine foot ceiling.

There are many many others .....96 inches minus 72 inches means....?

Your ideal pendant gives you a mount/chain or stem and fixture total of 24 inches, and comfortable look in both function an proportions. As to the relationship within that 24 inches? I don't like to see less than 6" of chain or stem.

This is why, before you fall in love? Look at the drawing of the specs. Every part noted with a dimension.: )

I really like the look of transparent pendants when you look through them to the statement wall behind them. I guess my refrigerator doesn't get that kind of love. I would choose pendants that are the statement pieces, your eye stops there to admire. Random ideas:

https://www.destinationlighting.com/item/currey-company-ellison-antique-silver-leaf-pendant-light-cylindrical-shade/P2216192

https://focaldecor.com/products/abbott-modern-nordic-pedant-light

I’ve never been a fan of the bare bulb so I’ve sat out on this lighting trend - I am a longtime fan of the bone china pendants from UK brand Original BTC (gorgeous light from these fixtures)