Thank you for some concrete information. Those samples could actually be different batches of the one colour. The flecks and shading are almost identical. Is the new version the low silica option following legislative changes? If so, you’ve been caught up in a change that was beyond the Manufacturers and your control. It would also explain the same name being used, something typically not done because it causes problems. PS you assumed I’m a guy. I’m not but I do have 25+ years of dealing with contracts, vendors and projects. Half my life is spent trying to get suppliers to do things they may not want to do, and it all comes back to the paperwork particularly the disclaimers and exclusions. I can’t see any resolution for you.

Both have their place depending on taste and budget.

Yours do look very nice but don't forget there are 1000s of homes with laminate bench tops with cook tops sitting directly on them. Don't think that the sides of a BBQ get hotter than a wok burner. I do like your first pic, the more compact one. What would be the approx cost sans BBQ?

Personally I'd be very careful adding stacked stone next to the dark bricks. I think stacked stone can work next to rendered areas to provide contrast/add another element but next to dark bricks it could easily look too busy/too much. It's your home though so do what will make you happy when you drive up to it! If you're dead set on the stacked stone then find the brick manufacturers location and ask to speak to one of their designers for an opinion/options. If they can't help then ask brick manufacturer for the addresses of some properties in your city that have used your particular brick and check a few out. They will usually give you some addresses if you explain what you're trying to do. I'm sorry to have not answered your question as to what colour stacked stone to use. Good luck, exciting times for you.