Quartz vs Quartzite

It may surprise you that many people do not know the difference between Quartz and Quartzite. Both are beautiful materials that are very popular choices for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Although many people think that Quartz is a natural stone, in the countertop industry the term Quartz actually refers to a synthetic material that consists of ground up Quartz combined with binders and colorants. Quartzite is the natural stone that is mined from the earth in slabs and then fabricated into countertops. 

A great way to remember that Quartz is the engineered product is to remember it is manufactured under brand names, such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Corian and Cambria. All of these manufacturers create different colors and patterns of Quartz by combining quartz crystals (found in quartzite) with resins, pigments and other materials.

How Do You Decide Between Quartz and Quartzite

So how do you decide whether to use Quartz or Quartzite in your Kitchen or Bathroom? They are both excellent choices for use throughout your home and in commercial business too. These are a few factors to consider:

What Is The Look You Are Trying To Achieve

Quartzite has a natural stone pattern with multiple colors typically in shades of white or light grey. There are also variations of Quartzite that embody pink, gold and brown hues. Quartzite is often mistaken for Marble or Granite because of the rich colors and natural veining. If you are looking for a pop of color or focal point for a room – such as a kitchen island – then Quartzite may be the choice for you.

Quartz is man-made and has a more consistent color and pattern. Quartz can have a clean, modern look with a wide variety of colors and consistent patterns. Some brands and colors of Quartz may also mimic the look of natural stone veining while others have a flecked appearance.

Do You Want Maintenance Free?

Quartzite is an extremely durable surface often compared to granite due to its strength. It is more resistant to scratching and more heat resistant than quartz. However, Quartzite is a natural stone that can be stained and therefore should be sealed.

Quartz is very low-maintenance because it is non-porous, so it is resistant to stains and bacteria free. It is a very popular choice for restaurants and commercial office spaces.

Final Decision: Quartz or Quartzite… Or Both???

It may surprise you to know that many of our clients pick both. Quartzite on a kitchen island can bring a high-end look with strong veining and brilliant colors that is complemented by a sleek Quartz on the surrounding countertops.

Quartz is a very popular choice to bring modern style and color to master bathrooms, while Quartzite can provide the wow-factor in a powder bathroom. Contact us at Surface One today to find the best countertop materials for your home or office.