When you hear “quartz” and “quartzite” it is easy to assume that these two materials are similar, if not the same! However, quartz and quartzite are very different from one another in many different ways!
The major difference is that quartz is a man-made material, while quartzite is a natural stone. Quartzite can be found in the earth surface and begins as sandstone and under a natural process of heat and pressure in the earth for hundreds of years, is fused with sparkly quartz crystals to form quartzite! Quartzite slabs generally come in shades of white or light grey, but minerals in the stone can lend pink, gold, or reddish-brown hues.
Quartz, on the other hand, is completely manmade! Slabs are engineered with the same quartz crystals found in quartzite, but a man-made process binds the crystal with resins, pigments, and other materials such as bits of glass. This process results in a very durable, non-porous countertop material that comes in a wide variety of colors and designs.
Aside from the different composition of these two materials, there are also many differences in their style. Quartzite is often mistaken for marble or granite, as it has the delicate veining of marble and similar coloration and patterning to some granites. Those seeking a natural look with lots of movement may prefer a quartzite countertop!
On the other hand, quartz can be made to look like any stone, and is offered in many different shades and patterns. If you have a specific color in mind, or want a consistent pattern throughout your slab, a quartz countertop is probably a better bet for your home.
In terms of care, quartz is extremely durable due to the binding process. This process extracts air, making the surface of quartz countertops durable and non-porous, which makes it less susceptible to chips. Quartzite is also a hard stone material, but is less dense than quartz and susceptible to easily staining in a heavy use area such as the kitchen. Quartzite requires regular sealing to prevent staining the surface, while quartz needs virtually no maintenance.
Whether you are looking for a uniform look to your countertops achieved through quartz or you’re dreaming of one of a kind, countertops with a natural appearance through quartzite, Distinctive Marble & Granite can help you reach your vision!
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