Quartz vs. Quartzite: What's the Difference?
Quartz and quartzite are both types of stone that are used for countertops and flooring, with quartzite being harder than quartz and therefore more scratch-resistant and stain-resistant. But what’s the real difference between quartz and quartzite? We break it down here, so you can make the right choice when shopping around for your home’s new countertop or flooring.
The science behind quartz
Quartz is a mineral made up of silicon and oxygen atoms. It's one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, and it has a variety of uses. The colors and patterns of quartz are endless. Quartz can be dyed in a wide spectrum of colors, from light blue to deep pink, or even violet or orange. Quartz slabs can be flecked or veined in the factory to display diverse, uniform patterns. Quartzite generally comes in white or gray shades, though pink or red hues can result from iron oxide in the stone. Furthermore, the pattern created through natural formation is also limited to a veined finish reminiscent of granite or marble, showing visible variations from end to end.
Quartzite is all-natural
Consisting of 90 to 99 percent quartz grains, quartzite is a natural stone composed of only naturally occurring components that appeal to the eco-conscious for the same reasons that it's made by nature and only with naturally occurring components. The way it is made is through quartz-rich sandstone that has been altered through high pressure and temperature, and then mined and cut into slabs. Conversely, the quartz used in countertops is engineered stone made in a factory. Only 90 to 94 percent of it is mined from the earth; approximately six to ten percent of the sand is man-made resins and pigments that bind the ground quartz.
How it compare to other types of stone
When it comes to natural stone countertops, there are a lot of options to choose from. Two of the most popular choices are quartz and quartzite. But what exactly is the difference between these two materials?
Which is more expensive: quartz or quartzite?
If you're considering adding quartz or quartzite to your home, you might be wondering what the difference is between the two materials. Here's a quick overview of the key differences between quartz and quartzite
How do I know if I have quartz or quartzite?
If you're not sure whether you have quartz or quartzite, there are a few ways to tell. First, take a look at the overall color of the stone. If it's mostly white or light-colored, it's likely quartz. If it's darker, it may be quartzite.
Styles and finishes
There are two main types of quartz countertops on the market: engineered quartz and natural quartzite. Engineered quartz is made from a mixture of ground quartz and polymer resins, while natural quartzite is a 100% natural stone product.
Maintenance
Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, so it's no surprise that quartz countertops are extremely durable. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is also quite hard, but because it is a natural stone, it is slightly more porous than quartz and requires more maintenance. both require regular cleaning with soap and water, but quartzite should be sealed every six months to prevent staining. When it comes to heat resistance, quartz wins again because quartzite can crack when exposed to high temperatures.