White cabinets. Timeless, fresh, adaptable. They are an enduring kitchen favorite, whether you are installing them new or painting existing cabinets for an uplifting change of pace. White cabinets pair well with a large variety of granite patterns. Of course, white-on-white and black and white are always reliable style choices, or you could go for bolder colors like blue or green.

Here are ten counters (nine granites and a quartzite) that are particularly well suited for white cabinets and a few tips on making the most of your granite and cabinet combination.

Alaska White Granite

This crisp stone is named for its icy formations of bright white minerals accented by streaks of ebony feldspar and a scattering of translucent quartz. This granite has a limited palette, but a deep pattern that will add visual complexity to a white-on-white kitchen or bathroom. If you like this granite, you should also look at Juperana Delicatus Granite, Bianco Antico Granite, and Winter White Granite.

Black Pearl Granite

This Indian granite has a deep black color with accents of gray in a subtle composite pattern. It’s a great alternative to the jet black surface of Absolute Black or Premium Black Granite if you are designing a contemporary black and white kitchen. Other solid black granites with understated patterns include: Cambrian Black Granite and Virginia Mist Granite.

Blue Pearl Granite

Steely blue, semi-iridescent granite paired with a white cabinet is a fresh, soothing combination. Blue Pearl Granite is a minimal choice for a subdued, yet airy feel. Depending on your style, you can use backsplash and accessories to make this the centerpiece of either a traditional or contemporary kitchen. This granite works well in each style; it’s up to you to play up either aspect of its character.

Black Marinace Granite

For a bit more drama in the kitchen, there’s Black Marinace Granite. This polymict pebble conglomerate granite has one of the most unique patterns available on the market. It may look man-made, but it’s actually quarried that way. Each “pebble” is a unique pattern. Paired with white cabinets, Black Marinace Granite (also called Black Morgan Granite or Black Mosaic Granite) is an eclectic twist on the classic black and white kitchen. If you like this pattern, take a look at Green Marinace Granite, a similar geological phenomenon with green hues.

Calacatta Macaubas Quartzite

Quartzite is a natural, quarried stone that typically looks like marble, but is much harder and more durable. This stunning variety is so named because its bold veins resemble Calacatta Marble. Calacatta Macaubas Quartzite is a great alternative to marble for a practical version of the traditional white-walls-marble-counters European kitchen.

Colonial White Granite

If you are designing a white-on-white kitchen, Colonial White Granite is an ideal choice. Points of black and dark grey minerals form a slow-moving constellation stretching across the cool, off-white and grey background. Tie this combination of white granite and white cabinets together with white marble subway tiles for a pristine contemporary look.

Silver Waves Granite

Another variation on the black and white kitchen theme, Silver Waves Granite is a marble-esque swirl of black and white. With its simplicity of color and bold pattern, Silver Waves is sure to be the most unique feature in your home. See also: Titanium Granite and Black Forest Granite.

Giallo Ornamental Granite

This counter is a reliable favorite. Still a top-seller after years and years, this Giallo Ornamental Granite combines a simple palette of white, cream, black, and hints of deep cranberry in a medium composite pattern. Pair it with a white or cream cabinet for a charming traditional kitchen. Also check out Santa Cecilia Granite and Giallo Veneziano Granite. If you like a bit more contrast, the popular dark green granite Uba Tuba also clicks well with a white cabinet.

Steel Grey Granite

Steel Gray Granite

As its name suggests, Steel Grey Granite has the rugged charm of the industrial age. Its medium composite pattern stays within a small range of greys throughout, making it the perfect choice, when paired with white cabinets, for a contemporary, industrial-chic look. You can increase this rugged look even more by choosing a leathered or antique-finish Steel Grey.

Volga Blue Granite

Volga Blue Granite is a fairly simple stone at first glance. Medallions of reflective black and grey fill the surface in varying sizes for a subtle, but intriguing look. However, as soon as light hits the stone, you can see the iridescent coins of blue Labradorite set in the black background. On a white cabinet, Volga Blue Granite makes a bold, sumptuous statement.

What’s the best way to make sure you find the perfect granite to go with your white cabinets? When you visit your local fabricator, bring a drawer (if you already have the cabinets installed) or a sample door (for new orders) and set it up against the slabs or samples of granite. Step back, and see what catches your eye!

Featured image source: houzz