What Is Dolomite Countertop Material? Pros, Cons and Prices
What is dolomite countertop material? A dolomite countertop is a natural stone countertop made mostly of the mineral dolomite, which looks a lot like white marble but is a little harder and reacts more slowly to acids. It suits bright kitchens and bathrooms where you want the marble look with less worry. It still needs periodic sealing and quick wiping of acidic spills.
Summary
- Dolomite forms when magnesium-rich water slowly alters limestone.
- It rates about 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, harder than most marble.
- It etches more slowly than marble, but it can still etch.
- Priced by the tier of the slab you choose; see slabs in person.
What Dolomite Is
Dolomite is a sedimentary stone made mostly of the mineral of the same name, a calcium magnesium carbonate. It forms over millions of years as magnesium-rich water slowly changes limestone. Many dolomite slabs have a white or light gray background with soft veining, which is why they are often compared with marble.
Dolomite Countertop Pros and Cons
Pros
- White, marble-like look with soft veining
- Harder than most marble
- Reacts to acids more slowly than marble
- Natural stone: every slab unique
Cons
- Softer than quartzite and granite
- Can still etch if acids sit on it
- Needs periodic sealing
- Not our pick for outdoor kitchens
How Dolomite Compares With Marble and Quartzite
Think of the three white stones as a ladder. Marble is softest and most reactive, dolomite is in the middle, and quartzite is the hardest and doesn't etch.
| Stone | Approx. Mohs | Etching |
|---|---|---|
| Marble | 3 to 4 | Etches readily |
| Dolomite | 3.5 to 4 | Etches slowly |
| Quartzite | About 7 | Doesn't etch |
For the full comparison, see our guide on dolomite vs quartzite. Slabs sold as Super White are a good example of how dolomite and quartzite get confused.
How Dolomite Countertops Are Priced
At Cornerstone, dolomite is priced by the tier of the slab you choose, per square foot installed. Our tiers start at $29.95, $58.95 and $119.95 per square foot, with Semi-Precious on request, and your quote names the slab and its tier. See our dolomite countertops in the yard.
How to Care for Dolomite
Clean with warm water and a pH-neutral stone cleaner, wipe acidic spills promptly and reseal when a water test shows the stone darkening. More comparisons are in our countertop stone guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dolomite a good countertop?
Yes, for homeowners who want a marble look with a little more resistance and who wipe acids promptly.
Is dolomite better than marble?
For kitchens, often. It is harder and etches more slowly.
Does dolomite scratch?
It can, more easily than quartzite or granite. Use cutting boards.
Does dolomite need sealing?
Yes, periodically, to keep oils and liquids from soaking in.
Can dolomite be used in bathrooms?
Yes. Vanities are an easy fit for dolomite.
