REMODELLING A FIREPLACE

[PAR2010]

I have a fireplace insert surrounded with marble and then a wood molding around the marble.  The marble is green and I want to replace it with a neutral color.  I believe I can remove the marble but am guessing it will be difficult.  Wondering if I can just cover it.  I am not sure if any of the following ideas will work:
1) painting with a high heat paint
2) covering over marble with tile or stone (will anything bond to the marble?)
Any other ideas would be much appreciated.