Here is an interesting little piece from Better Homes and Gardens about Four Ways to Get the Look of Granite Countertops. They bring up some pros and cons of alternative materials without looking too closely at things like environmental impact of mining stone and the cost of moving/ removing granite countertops. Several of the options they mention make good use of both pre- and post-consumer recycled waste materials, like the HPL designs featured below. The first, Lamitech's Marrone Imperial has stunning veining and color gradients, while the second, Wilsonart's Corinthian Limestone carries the subtlties of real stone.

The article refers to solid surfacing as well. In recent years solid surfacing has evolved into a gorgeous approximation of not just granite, but of many types of stone. A difference in perception may exist from the residential market to professional specifiers, however. In the past year the majority of architects and designers asked about solid surface say that despite the material's fidelity, they prefer solid surface that looks like solid surface; that is to say that can carry aesthetics not found in nature. Below are a few examples: Formica's 750 e and Corian's Rice Paper reflect both the design trend toward light colors with minimalistic embedded accent, which is inline with the professional trend in solid surfacing material. Yes, solid surfacing can look like granite, but should it?

In looking at engineered materials that resemble granite, it is important to look at how the materials can go beyond real stone as well. Engineered composites can look like stone, but they don't have to. This example called Ambrato from Curava includes recycled glass for a whimsical, artistic look.

There are many alternatives to real stone that provide the same aesthetic; but engineered materials can also go beyond to create looks impossible to find in nature.