The highest quality granite is mined from lower sections of the quarry, and is purchased by experienced importers from larger companies. Less expensive stone is often purchased from the top of the quarry, and may be prone to cracking. The country of origin and cost of transporting the raw material to the fabricator also play a part in the overall cost of the stone.

The quality of tools used, experience of the granite fabricator, and working conditions in the shop contribute to the costs of installing countertops. Finesse in finishing details such as the number and placement of seams, the degree of polish, and the precision joinery of edges and corners reflects the expertise of the fabricator.

Seams should be at least 3” away from areas that experience changes in temperature such as a dishwasher or range, and should be filled with powder from the same granite so they are as invisible as possible. Stone that is 2cm thick is more expensive to fabricate than 3cm granite because the countertop edge needs to be built up, but it can be helpful when clearances between kitchen appliances or upper cabinets vary throughout the kitchen.