What’s the Difference Between Quartzite & Quartz?

What’s the Difference Between Quartzite & Quartz?

Quartzite and Quartz are two materials that can be very confusing, especially for design-savvy clients.

Quartz and quartzite are both high-end countertop materials, but you should know that they vary in composition, maintenance, and durability. Read on to compare the two resurfacing materials: Quartz vs. quartzite.

The first and most significant difference is that quartzite is a natural stone, whereas Quartz is manufactured. In other words, quartzite comes from the Earth’s crust, where it has been exposed to a type of pressure called metamorphism. The processed material was later on named “Quartz.” There are many different types of engineered composites made primarily from glass or plastic that resemble natural stone; these materials are likely used more often by homeowners than genuine Quartzes because they can be cheaper and easier to find in various forms like tiles or slabs.

Choosing between these two can be pretty easy if you know what to look for. For example, if you want quartzite for its charming inconsistencies, make sure you see the uneven or inconsistent pattern in the veining. Similarly, if you want Quartz for its uniform quality, make sure its veins are uniform and consistent.

Quartzite and Quartz can be great options for kitchen countertops. But while natural quartzite is even harder than granite, it loses some strength during the compression processing required to prepare it for purchase. In the end, man-made Quartz remains scratch resistant but not as durable as natural quartzite in its original form.

While all of these stones are beautiful, they are also very different. It’s important to do your research and decide which type of stone is right for your project.

While both materials are beautiful, durable, and ideal for countertops, their key differences will help you decide which one is best for your kitchen or bathroom. Quartz is a synthetic material, while quartzite is a natural one. As a synthetic material, Quartz is man-made in a lab. It’s easier to manufacture than quartzite, a naturally occurring material. As a result, Quartz is less expensive than quartzite. Quartz is more widely available than quartzite, making it easier to find. Quartzite has more color variation than Quartz, making it more desirable for many people. Quartz has more durability than quartzite, making it a better option for commercial use.

In the end, there’s no right or wrong stone – they’re all beautiful! Just make sure you do your research and choose the right stone for your project!