What is Quartz?

Quartz is an engineered or man-made product that is often specified because it can provide a consistent aesthetic. Made through a manufacturing process using ground quartz, resin, and pigments, engineered quartz is a highly durable and beautiful premium hard surface option available in many design styles, including natural stone-like looks and modern concrete colors. Engineered quartz is used in residential and commercial applications due to its ease of maintenance and resistance to heat, scratching, and staining.

What is Quartzite?

Quartzite is a naturally occurring, metamorphic rock formed from Sandstone. When Sandstone comes into contact with magma buried deep within the earth’s surface, quartzite forms from natural quartz grain. Quartzite can be of exceptional strength, density, and hardness. Quartzite is highly sought after for kitchen countertop applications due to its similar veining and color palate to Marble, but with much higher resistance to everyday chemicals. Although all quartzites are not 100% non-porous, the abrasion resistance and weathering durability of quartzite allow for its use in almost any application. Quartzites with a honed finish require proper sealing.

The difference between quartz and quartzite is simple

Quartz is an engineered, man-made product manufactured in a factory by combining elements of quartz, resin, and pigment. Alternatively, quartzite is a natural stone that forms 100% organically deep within the earth that is extracted in blocks by quarrying.

We stock the highest quality quartzite and quartz slabs

Hand selecting only the top 1-3% of natural stone available, our natural quartzite is of exceptional quality and durability. In addition to our quality, our depth of in-stock quartzite slabs is second-to-none. To read more about how we select our natural stone slabs and what sets us apart, click here. We also stock the most premium brands and colors in engineered quartz, including Caesarstone, the world’s oldest and highest-quality quartz brand, and Diresco, a premium line of sustainable quartz. In addition, recent advances in manufacturing have opened the door to a wide variety of new engineered quartz patterns, including many with the look of marble. Our newest line of engineered quartz, Pure Surfaces, features eight different marble-like looks. From a calacatta or carrara look, and everything in between, these modern and chic engineered quartz countertops meet today’s design challenges and everyday life.

In conclusion, while one of these stones is a man-made, engineered stone (quartz), and the other a product of nature (quartzite), both are high-quality options depending on your project. Both quartz and quartzite are ideal hard surface options for kitchen countertops, bars, bathroom vanities, fireplace surrounds, tables, and more. Choosing between these two slab options comes down to personal preference, aesthetics, and project requirements. Whether you select quartz, quartzite, or any of our other gorgeous stones, our stone specialists will assist you in finding the perfect hard surface for your project’s needs.

Discover the best selection of quartz + quartzite

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