Matrix Granite

[seeking]

We just had Matrix granite installed in our kitchen.  The installer insisted the stone was sealed prior to installation, however it darkened immediately if any water touched the surface.  The installer has since applied two additional coats of sealer, but the sealer darkened the stone.  The original light gray iridescence of the stone is now gone and it's a duller charcoal color.  After all this, the stone still picks up any grease that touches it, even if only for a few seconds. 

Does anyone know how to seal this particular granite (really seal it) without darkening it?  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!  Thank you!

[Mark D.]

Can you tell me what he used to seal it? It sounds like he used a color enhancing sealer and that you would have preferred a non-color enhancing impregnating sealer.
I don't understand what you mean by "After all this, the stone still picks up any grease that touches it, even if only for a few seconds. " Please elaborate, as polished stone will leave fingerprints and the like on it and the darker it is the more noticeable they are. 

Glad to be of service,
Mark

[seeking]

Hi Mark,

Thanks for your comments. I did clarify with the installer that he was not using a color enhancing sealer.  He is using a product from Europe, but I don't know the exact name.

I don't believe the stone is showing fingerprints.  It's not shiny enough to do that. 

In regards to the grease, I was using a peanut butter test to simulate an everyday spill. If I place a small amount of peanut butter on the counter for 3-4 minutes, a large dark spot is left after wiping up the peanut butter.  The grease spot disperses a little bit over 24+ hours and is a somewhat better after several days. I have tried washing it with soap and water and it doesn't remove the grease mark. 

[Mark D.]

Ummm...based on that info it is not sealed. If it is staining it isn't sealed...simple as that.
Make a poultice to remove the stain, wash it clean and allow it to dry then use a sealer like this to protect the stone and stainproof it.
http://www.defusco.com/Tenax-Stone-Impregnator-and-Sealer

Glad to be of service,
Mark