Quartz VS Quartzite: What’s the difference?

At first sight many think Quartz is short for Quartzite, but they are completely different materials. From a pros and cons list to the key differences in their make up. This is an easy Quartz VS Quartzite break down for the homeowners who don’t need to know everything about stone.

“Taj Mahl” Quartzite kitchen with full backsplash

Quartz VS Quartzite: The Pros and Cons

First of all, daily maintenance will look about the same for both Quartz and Quartzite, like most countertops a basic wipe with soap and water will do the trick! Like Granite, both are fairly stain and scratch resistant. Below are a few key differences to know about each stone.

Quartz is a man-made material typically comprised of around 93% quartz and 7% resins. Since the color and design is manufactured per the current trends this has become a very popular stone option. In the last decade we have mostly seen variations of plain white or grey and white marble-like designs. There are however many other color options, Cambria is a great distributor for unique slabs. In 2024, we are seeing more beige quartz slabs mimicking the popular “Taj Mahl” Quartzite such as Wilsonart’s Glencoe Quartz.

“Alaska Bianca” Quartz Vanity Countertop

What every Quartz Countertop homeowner needs to know

With Quartz being man-made it is non-porous so it doesn’t require sealing which any natural stone would require. It is nearly thoughtless to maintain, just clean with soap and water like any countertop. However, because of the resins to bind and give it color, Quartz is heat resistant but not heat proof. As a homeowner that means you will need to protect from hot pots, pans and sometimes even crock pots and other electric heating tools. Over time heat can discolor your quartz especially light colors and at worst crack the stone, typically this is due to the addition of pressure or a shock in temperature change such as cold water on your countertop followed by a hot pan. Some vow they haven’t experienced any consequences but all manufactures advise against and won’t warranty this type of misuse.

Indoor use only is another downfall of quartz, while there are a few new slab options that are able to handle the outdoor conditions they are few and far between. Check out Caesarstone for outdoor Quartz options.

Quartz is a popular countertop choice due to it’s design variety, consistent coloring throughout the slab and ease to maintain. Quartz is also one of the least expensive stone options. You can find a granite slab or two a little less expensive but those are usually busy and dark colors such as, “New Caledonia“.

What is Quartzite?

Quartzite is a natural stone, much like Granite. The main difference is Quartzites higher ranking on the hard scale and it’s brittle natural. You will also find quartzite to be less busy and speckled than Granite. Quartzite doesn’t however have many color options typically you will find variations of veined greys, greens, blues, yellows with some white options. Many often find quartzite preferable for it’s soft features having some resemblance to the esteemed Marble but much less of its porous nature. Learn about more stone options including Granite and Marble here.

“Artemis” Quartzite kitchen with waterfall edge

However Quartzite is natural so you will need to seal your countertop surface every few years, like Granite. Quartzites biggest down fall in my opinion, as a Quartzite truther for many years, is the cost. The slabs can be more than Quartz but more costly than the slab, the fabrication. You also need to speak with your fabricator after picking out your slab because you may be limited on edge styles. Some fabricators won’t miter Quartzite because both the stones hardness and brittle nature. Work directly with your fabricator to answer any questions about layout and edge profiles!

Quartz VS Quartzite which is better?

In my opinion, the new generation of Quartz is progressively looking more alike natural stone however, these manufactured pieces fall sort when it comes to the natural crystal reflections as well as the perfect polished shine. These reasons along with having grown up with stone which I could almost always throw a hot pan out of the oven on, I know I will always be drawn to natural stone whether that is Granite or Quartzite. However for those that don’t have a problem with the heat, prefer a very specific shade of white, consistent veining or looking for a less expensive option Quartz is a great option. So, when it comes to deciding Quartz Vs Quartzite there really isn’t one better than the other factually, just decide which makes the most sense for you and your home!

Give us a call (480)980-2845 or shoot me an email Hailey@itscountertops.com with your cabinet plans and I would be happy to get you a quote for any of your stone countertop needs in Northern Utah! Thank you for visiting our website, make an appointment to visit in person today!