Gemstone Contemporary Kitchen, Dallas

One of the most popular uses Luke Gilcrease sees for agate is kitchen islands. "It’s a way to make a statement in the space," he says. Here black granite countertops are pushed aside by the stunning natural agate island. While it looks like a 4-inch solid slab, it’s actually multiple surfaces 2 centimeters thick that are fitted and fused together, cut artfully in a way so the stones give the appearance of thickness. A skilled artisan made them line up properly, creating a solid and homogeneous-looking piece. The slab is backlit by LED lights, which, until only a couple of years ago, weren’t strong enough to shine through the dense stone. Only about half the stones here are translucent, creating a beautiful, unique mix of light and texture and depth. Budget: $30,000 to $40,000Agate: Majestic Gemstone

Other counters can be more than 3 inches thick, as with the stunning brown agate waterfall counter shown in this photo.

island counter top - island only