Thanks, Kim! We were thinking about Red Sockeye quartzite for the coping to complement the pavers we already have on our patio (and that we're going to continue as decking around the pool). I know that flagstone and SWG aren't the best mix so I thought that going with a stronger flagstone like quartzite and then sealing it would prevent the problem with flaking...I hope. I haven't picked out a stone for the raised spa wall yet and would like some feedback regarding that: The outside of our house, as well as the pilasters near the pool, have stone on them already. I'm unsure of whether to use that same stone for the raised spa wall or pick a different type/shape, but one that's complementary to the existing stone? (Big sigh!) Cosmetic choices cause me more stress than anything else! For the tile line, I think I would prefer something that would blend in with the flagstone and spa stone (i.e. be similar in color and look like stone). I know some people use flagstone as their tile line, but I'm not sure how it would hold up and it seems like ceramic tile would be easier to clean. For the baja shelf my husband was thinking of using the quartzite than the Pebble Sheen because he thinks the lounge chairs would scratch/chip the plaster, but, again, I would think that having flagstone perpetually submerged would cause it to disintegrate right? 
As far as plaster we were thinking of going with the Ocean Blue Pebble Sheen and abalone shells. If you haven't already guessed by looking at the pictures, I'm not much of a risk taker (or have much imagination) when it comes to colors so I welcome any insight/suggestions/comments! 
Internet pic of the red sockeye:
Actual sample (setting against my existing stone and pavers):
Actual sample next to the pool:
Same stone/pavers near the pool:
Ocean Blue Pebble Sheen: (I snagged this pic off the internet. Incidentally, this person used Red Sockeye. You can really see the color of it on the bench in the pool.):
As far as plaster we were thinking of going with the Ocean Blue Pebble Sheen and abalone shells. If you haven't already guessed by looking at the pictures, I'm not much of a risk taker (or have much imagination) when it comes to colors so I welcome any insight/suggestions/comments! Internet pic of the red sockeye:
Actual sample (setting against my existing stone and pavers):
Actual sample next to the pool:
Same stone/pavers near the pool:
Ocean Blue Pebble Sheen: (I snagged this pic off the internet. Incidentally, this person used Red Sockeye. You can really see the color of it on the bench in the pool.):
You are doing a great job! Too bad about the steel! OUCH in so many ways! Got to love the blame game
Thanks for sharing!
What color family are you thinking of going with? Blues, Greens, Browns? GOLD?? SO many to pick from!
Kim
