Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Firebox Paint?

I've recently placed black granite around the fireplace box. The internal surrounding yellow brick with black stains looks poor. Any suggestions for (1) removal of the black stains or (2) a black paint that would withstand the fire temp? thanks!

If you don't plan to ever build a fire in the firebox, you might be able to clean the fire brick with muriatic acid and a wire brush.
There is no such thing as a fireproof paint, but there are heat resistant paints that are available for such things as BBQ grills, etc.
If you ever build a fire, however, it will burn it off.
Good luck!
Mike

Thank you. Being in the Northeast I do plan on using it. I agree- I've used the hihg-temp paint on my grill and that wore off qickly. This muriatic acid - will it deteriorate the brick/mortar?

Muriatic acid is used by masons to clean mortar off of brick, so I would rinse it off with water after cleaning, just to be sure.
Use heavy rubber gloves, old clothes and eye protection. That stuff is very caustic, of course.
Once you build the first fire, all of your work will be blackend by soot again, however. I don't know of anyone that actually cleans it off other than normal annual chimney and firebox cleaning, which leaves the discoloration anyway.
You're asking for a hard, dirty job just for temporary results.
Why don't you just get a decorative fireplace screen to hide the firebox off-season?
Mike