Among all the types of backsplash for the kitchen, a stone backsplash is one of the best options available. They are beautiful, durable, and create a unique look for the room in the heart of the home.

Farmhouse Living

Of course, a stone backsplash is not for everyone, but for anyone looking for a long-term backsplash with incredible design potential, it is an option worth considering.

Stone Backsplash Types

Natural stone is fabricated into many types of backsplashes. There are stone tiles, slabs, and stacked stone backsplashes. Also, there are many varieties of stone used in backsplashes.

Jam Architecture

Some of the most common are granite, slate, travertine, marble, river rock, soapstone, quartzite, and limestone.

Of course, each has its own particular qualities which are helpful in understanding which stone will work best for you.

Granite – Granite comes in a variety of colors and styles which means that this stone works well with many kitchen designs. Also, it is durable, hard, and does not need the maintenance that other natural stones require.Slate – Slate is a beautiful natural stone that comes in a variety of color tones from brown to green. However, most slate is a deep gray color. Also, it is durable and has a lovely natural texture.Travertine – This a light colored natural stone that is a type of limestone. Further, it is durable, though more delicate than other natural stones.Marble – Marble is a timeless material that is popular as a kitchen backsplash. It comes in a variety of colors and prices. However, it is more delicate than other natural stones.River rock – River rocks are stones that have been smoothed by the flowing water of a river. These are placed flat against the wall or as small stacked stones.Soapstone – Soapstone is a dense stone with natural antibacterial qualities. It is dark gray with undertones of blue and green. Also, it has beautiful white veining throughout.Quartzite – Quartzite is similar in appearance to marble, though it is less expensive and requires less maintenance than marble. It comes in a variety of colors and veining patterns.Limestone – This is sometimes used as a slab or as rough cut stones for a backsplash. Limestone is not as durable as some stones, but it has a natural and textured quality that is valuable in rustic design.Onyx – This is a rare natural stone with dramatic color variations and vein patterns. However, it is one of the more delicate stones and needs to be sealed on a regular basis.

Pros and Cons Of A Stone Backsplash

Trickle Creek Homes

Stone is an amazing option for a kitchen backsplash. However, there are some things to consider before investing in a natural stone backsplash.

Pros:

Durability – A natural stone backsplash is one of the most long-lasting backsplash materials.Cost – Some stone varieties like river rock and granite are cost-effective options for a backsplash.Beauty – Natural stone is a striking choice for a backsplash and has so much variety that your kitchen will never look just like anyone else’s. Further, there are stone options to fit kitchen designs featuring many color schemes.

Cons:

Cleaning – Some stone backsplashes have rough textures and crooks and crannies that are difficult to keep clean.Maintenance – Natural stone varieties like marble need to be sealed each year. Also, others like travertine and soapstone are delicate and need to be treated with care so as to prevent cracks and dents.Staining – Natural stone is porous and liable to staining. Therefore, you need to clean up any spills of water and food to keep the backsplash from staining.

Stone Backsplash Ideas

Beth Webb Interiors

We have gathered some of the most beautiful examples of stone backsplash ideas for your consideration and inspiration.

Rustic stone backsplash with German schmear

Lindsey Brooke Design

This kitchen from Lindsey Brooke Design features a backsplash with rough cut limestones called Austin stone named after quarries from the area surrounding Austin, Texas.

This rough stacked stone backsplash with a mortar wash is popular in farmhouse and other rustic design styles.

Also, you can get this look with a stone veneer backsplash that has been fabricated to look like natural stacked stones rather than the real thing. The price range of limestone varies, but you can find limestone anywhere from $70-$200 per square foot.

Quartzite’s appeal

Lux Decor

As you can see from this picture, quartzite has an amazing resemblance to white marble. However, unlike marble, it is durable and hard making it the perfect material for a backsplash or countertop.

Also, quartzite comes in many colors and has marbling with high visual interest. Quartzite is a mid range stone that you can find from $60-$120 per square foot.

Soapstone

DeVol Kitchens

Together, this honed soapstone backsplash with the white kitchen cabinets have a timeless appeal and cohesive design.

The slab fabrication with corresponding countertops presents the most elegant but simple combination. Further, the pairing of the dark backsplash with the brass fixtures has just the right amount of contrasting color.

Soapstone prices range from $55-$100 per square foot.

Classic white stone backsplash

Studio DB

White marble is a good choice for this kitchen backsplash creating the perfect contrasting texture for the room. A sleek shelf keeps the two pictures away from the splashes of water and provides a bold focal point for this space.

You can have marble installed with different finishes.

For example, polished marble surfaces project a more modern look and honed marble has a European or rustic vibe. Also, marble is one of the less expensive stone options which you can find from $40-$100 per square foot.

Slate tile backsplash

Georgiana Design

If you like the traditional look of farmhouse style but want a stone tile backsplash with some elegance, try a slate tile option. Slate has an old-world classic style that looks impeccable with this kitchen style.

Notice, the owners have used the tiles on a small part of the wall above the stove and blended the short backsplash section with wood paneling for a more custom look.

Slate has a wide price range anywhere from $50-$200 per square foot.

Travertine stone tile backsplash

Unique Design Solutions

The natural look of a travertine stone backsplash makes it a popular choice among natural stone options.

In this kitchen, the interior designer has used narrow subway tiles from a light, neutral travertine stone and paired it with light marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. Further, the gray wood cabinetry provides a cool toned contrast to the overall warm space.

Travertine stone costs range from $50-$100 per square foot.

River rock backsplash

Cory Holland Photography

If you are looking for a more rustic stone kitchen backsplash, consider river rock. In this coastal home, river rock creates continuity in the interior spaces by connecting it with the outside environment.

The blend of the multi-colored stone backsplash with the natural wood and gray cabinets is effective.

River rock for backsplashes come on square grids for easy installation and costs anywhere from $10-$25 per square foot.

Granite countertop and backsplash

Studio Villanueva Architecture, LLC

The transition between the granite countertop and the granite slab backsplash look seamless creating a sleek look loved by interior designers and homeowners alike.

The light granite blends with the white cabinetry creating a cohesive kitchen design. Granite ranges from $32-$75 per square foot.

Striking onyx stone backsplash

Date Interiors

Onyx is indeed a luxury stone which has the look and style of a work of art. The pink marble veining on this slab is a dramatic look and perfect for this glamorous kitchen.

It complements the gold tones of the island and provides all the decoration needed in this space. Onyx prices range from $75-$250 per square foot and is the most expensive natural stone that you can choose.

Mixed materials

Buechel Stone Corp

Mixing different types of stones and other materials can create a unique and fresh look. For example, consider this kitchen from Buechel Stone Corp.

They used a variety of natural stone in this contemporary kitchen including a marble backsplash behind the stove and a rough stacked stone on the wall with the oven.

Sophisticated and modern limestone

Andrew Mann Architecture

Limestone is one of the most versatile of all stone backsplashes for kitchens. Thus, it can be fashioned in a rustic style or in an elevated style like it is in this kitchen.

The details of this kitchen like the textured limestone tiles, the ivory walls, and the wood paneled island all work together to create a modern kitchen style that is light and bright.

Moody marble backsplash

Wolfe Rizer Interiors

The most popular marble for backsplashes today is white. However, marble in a dark color can create a dramatic and stunning backsplash. For example, Wolfe Rizer Interiors have paired this beautiful brown marble backsplash with granite countertops and white flat-fronted cabinets for a modern traditional look with an extravagant touch.

Elegant quartzite

Duaer Design

We love this chic contemporary Los Angeles kitchen styled with a brown toned quartzite. The light and dark veining echo the warm wood cabinetry. Further, the cabinets ground the design and contrast with the light walls and cabinets.

Rustic slate backsplash

Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects

This mountain home has a variegated slate backsplash with a rustic texture. This natural stone kitchen backsplash shows all the amazing colors of slate. Further, the natural wood cabinetry provides a contrast to the stone backsplash and picks up the touches of burnt orange in the slate.

Soapstone slab backsplash

Salamander Construction Inc

The soapstone backsplash and countertop have lovely white veining bringing a subtle textured look to this cottage kitchen. The contrast between the dark soapstone and the robin’s egg blue cabinets is striking. Notice, the interior designer has provided the area behind the stove with a tall backsplash with a lower one around above the other counters to allow space for the upper shelves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

Does stone make a good backsplash?

A stone backsplash is one of the best options for backsplashes out of all the options available. While there are some drawbacks including the difficulty of cleaning and some required maintenance, stone is hard, durable, and beautiful.

How much is natural stone backsplash?

Natural stone backsplashes vary in price depending on the price of the stone, the style of the backsplash, and installation. The cost of the materials range from around $32 per square foot for inexpensive granite options to $250 dollars per square foot for the most expensive onyx. For installation, you will pay anywhere from $60-$80 per square foot.

Are stone backsplashes out of style?

While there are ebbs and flows in stylish and popular backsplashes, a stone backsplash will never go out of style. This is because stone provides natural texture and interesting color variations that work with many types of kitchen styles.

How can I get the look of a stone backsplash if the cost of natural stone is not in my budget?

First, you can consider remnant slabs which sell for a cheaper price than retail options. Also, consider doing the work yourself as this will reduce the cost of the overall project making it more affordable. Last, there are peel and stick stone backsplash options that create the look of natural stone for a much cheaper price.

What kitchen backsplash is in Style 2020?

White backsplashes of all varieties remain one of the most popular backsplash options. This includes white tiles of ceramic and marble. Another popular trend is rough stone veneer backsplash that is covered in a light mortar wash for a farmhouse look.

How do you clean a natural stone backsplash?

Look for a specific natural stone cleaner for the exact type of backsplash that you have. If you have a rough textured stone, use a non-abrasive scrub pad or one with soft bristles to get in the small crevices that you need to clean. Make sure to clean the backsplash on a regular basis as it will be easier if you have not allowed dirt and food to build up over time.

How do you seal a stone backsplash?

First, clean the backsplash and allow it to dry. Next, brush or wipe a sealer on to the backsplash making sure to watch for drips. Then, allow the backsplash to sit with the sealer on it for at least 10 minutes so that the sealer can penetrate the porous surface. Last, begin wiping away the excess sealer. Allow the surface to dry before using.

Stone Backsplash: Conclusion

Natural stone is a beautiful choice for a backsplash.

While many types of natural stone are more expensive than other backsplash options, they are worth it for the qualities they bring.

There are many wonderful varieties that are durable, beautiful, and each has characteristics that make it one-of-a-kind.

In the end, consider all the options for yourself and see how they can enhance your style and kitchen design.