Quartzite or Quartz?
Homeowners searching for countertops often find preferred materials like quartz and quartzite. Although they seem to be similar surfaces, quartz and quartzite are essentially different materials: quartz is an engineered, synthetic surface whereas quartzite is a natural stone taken from quarries all around.
The Confusion
The geological definition of quartz, which describes a crystalline mineral made of silicon and oxygen, sometimes leads to confusion between quartz and quartzite. Natural quartzite slabs are sandstone high in mineral quartz. Mostly composed of crushed quartz grains combined with a glue that bonds them, quartz counters IRG makes up 7-10% resin and 90-93% quartz minerals.
Reading on will help you learn more about these products, the manufacturing process, and their performance in average homes.
How to Differentiate
Quartz
Over the past ten years, quartz has been a preferred material for countertop surfaces more and more. Quartz is impermeable and stain resistant unlike granite and quartzite. Applying a sealer on the surface is thus pointless.
One reason some people like quartz is simple maintenance—especially since it doesn't usually call for sealing. Quartz is more stain-resistant than natural stones like granite and quartzite, which need regular sealing for best defense. Unlike granite and quartzite, quartz should not be used for outdoor purposes, directly behind stoves and ranges, or in fireplaces. Quartz's resin has major drawbacks including poor resistance to UV radiation and inability to resist heat beyond 250°F. Hot things should so be advised not to be placed straight from the stove or oven onto the countertop. Applications like steam showers, stove backsplashes, and fireplaces should be avoided as prolonged high heat might deform the surface.
Still, this could be a good compromise since, compared to quartzite, quartz usually costs less per square foot. Natural stone slabs vary in size and are sold by the square foot; quartz is sold by the slab because of its standard measurements.
As quartz's popularity soars, manufacturers are always adding fresh styles and colors. Quartz differs from quartzite in part by the color choices and vein patterns. Often incorporating finer veins and undertones usually lacking in marble types, quartz collections provide color choices that mimic the softer tones of marble. Additionally uncommon to find naturally in quartzite, they can provide a strong white or medium gray backdrop.
Along with varying quartz brands, clients are now more focused than ever on lighter-hued quartz with veining instead of the darker-speckled tones that were popular in past years. The change is hardly surprising, though. White marble has become a popular choice for many kitchen counters, subverting the long-held conventional wisdom over previous years that marble is only for bathrooms while granite is preferred for kitchen surfaces. This suggests that low-cost surfaces that mimic white marble—which engineered materials like quartz can provide—will be in increasingly demand.
Simply said, crushed quartz crystals mixed with resin and synthetic additions like pigments creates "engineered stone" for countertops from a naturally occurring stone. About 10 percent of the countertop is synthetic; the rest is ground quartz.
You can learn more about the main benefits of quartz countertops in our video above.
Quartzite
If you're looking for something straight from the ground, in its natural state, then quartzite is perfect. Sandstone, or quartzite, is a naturally occurring rock formed from sand-sized quartz particles subjected to intense heat and pressure deep inside the crust of Earth. This process imparts unique characteristics and transforms the sandstone into a more solid and compact rock.
Quartzite is safe for use close to a fireplace or outdoor fire pit and has more heat resistance than synthetic quartz; do not mix them. Though less expensive than marble, which is prone to etching, scratching, and staining, quartzite is sometimes neglected because of its expense. It is also rather helpful for detail-oriented installations; for example, the continuous popularity of big, edge-to--edge waterfall islands and other wide kitchen surfaces can be more difficult to produce with quartz because of more evident seams.
Quartzite stands apart from synthetic quartz in part by its varied textures and patterns. For bookmatched installations, especially those drawn to a more seamless look and natural aesthetic, its natural patterns make it perfect. Quartzite is the most beautiful natural form from scattered organic patterns to caramelized crystalline streaks. Quartzite offers a great range of naturally occurring shapes, colors, and movement not possible in manmade creation. Quartzite is therefore much sought for by designers and homeowners who value accuracy and beauty that stands the test of time.
Check out our video about Blue Roma Quartzite for more design inspiration.
TIP
Quartzite is quite porous and prone to staining; normally, it shows a highly glossy appearance because of the resins required to preserve its stain-free quality.
Recommended Reading: Top 10 Stone Types Applied in Construction Projects
Trendy vs. Timeless
Quartzite, as said before, comes in several lighter tones than stones like granite and truly resembles marble. George says, "Every slab of quartzite is unique and they may resemble other natural stones, such marble and sandstone."
The quartz trend doesn't seem to be disappearing any time soon. We're not grumbling! Quartz countertops clearly offer a modern, reasonably priced, long-lasting option for bathrooms and kitchens. Wanting a basic dark gray bathroom countertop? Quartz is really good! Wanting white marble with veining to look. For that there's a quartz! Still, if your taste in design is more for a more natural look, quartzite may be the more affordable, low-maintenance, durable option than quartz and marble.
On the other hand, since it is produced, quartz can almost seem anything you could like. One amazing quality of quartz is almost limitless spectrum of colors and patterns. For example, by selecting quartz, you may include exquisite marble looks into your house's décor with a material that will hold daily use—perfect for kitchens.
Why not give marble in your kitchen more thought? See our book, To Marble or Not To Marble? That is the question, comparing the benefits and drawbacks of marble use against other natural and synthetic materials.
Recommended reading: Whole House Customization: The Complete Manual
Appearance
Think twice if you think you could tell a quartz countertop from a quartzite one. Since technology has progressed greatly, usually only a well-trained specialist can find that the veining in quartz is not real. Because the edges of quartz may be polished like natural stone, this helps ensure that, in most cases, the installed quartz is almost exactly like the natural material it is copying.
Durability
Quartzite is highly resistant to scratches and heat, but as a natural stone, it is porous and can stain if not sealed correctly or frequently. Quartz is highly resistant to heat and scratches; however, unlike quartzite, it does not need sealing by the homeowner since it is non-porous.
Stiffness
Technically, quartzite is harder than quartz in a comparison of the two. (For more background, among the very few stones harder than quartzite are diamonds.) More durable than manmade stones like quartz, quartzite is tougher than its natural counterparts granite or marble. Quartzite may so considerably withstand scratches rather more successfully. Quartz's resins give it more "flexibility," which lessens its sensitivity to chipping or denting.
Heat-Resistance
After all, the resins found in quartz do not develop in the very hot crust of our planet like those found in quartzite, hence quartzite is able to withstand higher temperatures than quartz! Quartzite can resist much greater temperatures by nature. Having said that, most people wouldn't set hot pots and pans directly on their counters, regardless of the material, so quartz can still withstand heat in most usual, everyday conditions.
How to Clean and Maintenance Quartzite Countertops vs. Quartz
When talking about quartzite as opposed to quartz, cleaning needs for both differ greatly.
Most quartzite counters have a sealer that needs replacing once or twice a year since it deteriorates. We will look at that more closely later, but the main thing to know about cleaning is that spills on quartzite should be taken care of right away.
Many people ignorant of how to keep quartzite counters ignore the reality that the sealer doesn't have to be completely drained for spills to stain the porous natural stone. Even sealant that has only thinned out won't hold against liquids like tomato sauce or wine if spills are left un cleaned for a long time.
Use correct quartzite countertop cleaning techniques to avoid this; immediately wipe spills with a moist towel. Before soaking the cloth in water for daily cleaning, add some mild soap to it.
The main advantage of quartz countertops is their much increased durability.
Quartz won't absorb liquids; it is not porous. Quartz counters can still get soiled, thus it's best to clean spills right away. Unlike with quartzite, one does not have to concern spills in the same way.
Steer clear of abrasive cleaning chemicals on both countertops.
Quartzite Countertops Colors vs. Quartz
Quartz countertop colors range practically endlessly depending on the materials used in them. They also mimic genuine stones like granite or marble.
On the other hand, quartzite counters are mostly made from natural materials. As a result, quartzite countertops have more limited color range. With the best quartzite, you are limited to white to gray tones; any other hue, such orange quartzite, results from the presence of another mineral or material.
Quartzite Countertops Cost vs. Quartz
A countertop's cost is influenced by several factors, however because of its limited supply, quartzite usually comes more expensive. While quartzite is only found in some areas of the world (namely Brazil), quartz may be created upon demand. If you need approximations of costs, there are ones available. While quartzite counters are priced between $60 and $220 per square foot, as of 2025 statistics from Angi the price of quartz countertops varies from roughly $50 to $200 per square foot.
George points out that there are no premium choices in the quartz category as found in natural quartzite. "That will affect the answer when I am asked [pricing] question." Natural quartzite lacks a "low-end" choice, whereas quartz does offer a low-end, entry-level category. Basically, consider quartz if you want a more broad, more varied pricing range.
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Which is Better?
Quartzite would fit you if you are a committed purist with a reasonable budget who is happy with a little additional care and maintenance. If your budget is specific or you want a low-maintenance lifestyle, think about going with quartz. (Quartz is exclusively recommended for interior uses; so, avoid it if you are building an outdoor kitchen.)
Along with a range of engineered surfaces like quartz and porcelain slabs, we provide the largest collection of premium, elegant, beautiful, and durable natural stone available today—marble, granite, quartzite, and onyx. Helping you through your design path and decision-making process excites us. Dedicated to helping you create the kitchen you dream of, we invite you to stop by our showroom so our experts and creative consultants may assist in choosing the perfect surface for your house. Every person is different, hence we approach every project with the best of care, paying great attention to the particular needs, budget, lifestyle, and style preferences of every customer. Call at +8613302843203 or visit us at a showroom convenient to you in Foshan, China.
George Group Building Materials Showroom
FAQs About Quartz and Quartzite
Made from precisely measured natural, permeable stone, quartzite countertops are Quartz counters are man-made stone created in individualized patterns. While the other 7% include resins and other components, high-quality samples feature over 90% loose quartz. This suggests for you as the buyer that quartz counters will offer more resilience to chipping, stains, and cracks.
Quartzite kitchen counters range in price from $60 to more than $200 per square foot. This was once a reasonable outlay long ago. Made surfaces like quartz provide great performance and looks, and their cost per square foot is either similar or less now.
Start by washing the stain on quartzite countertops with a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Should it prove ineffective, mix water with a maximum 12% strength hydrogen peroxide and several drops of ammonia.
Apply a poultice, a substance usually used for stubborn stains, to the affected area covered with plastic and left one to two days.
Slabs of the natural stone are mined, then meticulously carved to ensure esthetic appeal on quartzite countertops.
But most quartzite is too porous to be a countertop material in its natural state; without a sealer, it would absorb liquids easily. As such, polyurethanes, wax, or acrylic commonly finishes the surfaces.
One clearly more robust material is quartz. Quartzite markings and chips simpler. The higher porosity of the rock causes a major part of the issue.
