Quartz vs Quartzite

What's the Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite?

Quartz and Quartzite are two different materials that vary in appearances, durability, care and cost. Here’s what you need to consider before deciding on your countertops...

Composition:

• Quartzite is a natural stone formed when sandstone is subjected to high heat and pressure over time. Like granite, it is then quarried and sliced into quartzite slabs.

• Quartz is an engineered stone composed of quartz crystals found within rocks, resins and pigments. Typically, quartz will contain 90-95% natural quartz stone.

Appearance:

• Quartzite has a natural, elegant appearance and is usually a granular texture of white to gray with streaking throughout. Traces of impurities of other minerals present during its formation can result in a variety of different colors and patterns.

• Quartz can be engineered and manufactured to have a wide range of colors and patterns, including solid patterns and veining that mimic the look of natural stones like marble and granite.

Durability:

• Quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones available and withstands heat very well. It is highly resistant to scratches.

• Quartz is nearly as hard as quartzite and highly resistant to scratches, but the resin present in the material is prone to melting in heat above 300ºF. Excessive sunlight or UV radiations may discolor quartz over time.

Maintenance:

• Quartzite has low porosity, so it’s dense structure makes it resistant to stains or chemical damage. However, it will require sealing before use and a few times a year to enhance its stain resistance.

• Quartz is generally non-porous making it resistant to stains, bacteria and mold growth. Quartz can often wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Pricing:

• Quartzite and Quartz are priced similarly. Quartz can be poured into a mould to produce virtually any shape. However, Quartzite must be cut with a diamond blade requiring greater time and skill. Project complexity will result in the per square foot cost of Quartzite to exceed that of Quartz.

You can see why it’s important to consider functionality within your lifestyle in addition to the aesthetics of your project when choosing a countertop material. Both quartzite and quartz are beautiful and durable stones worth considering for your kitchen or bathroom.