1. Why choose quartzite?
Quartzite is an increasingly popular choice among homeowners and interior designers. Its sophisticated good looks combined with crystalline sparkle, durability, earth-toned colors and stylish appearance make it a top trend contender for everything from kitchen countertops to feature walls.
Taj Mahal quartzite feature wall
2. Is quartzite the same as quartz?
Quartzite is a natural stone. People often get quartz and quartzite mixed up, but despite the similarity in names, the two are quite different. Quartz refers to a manmade material created by combining crushed stone with color and resin to make an engineered slab. Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that starts out as sandstone and evolves over time under intense heat and pressure. It is quarried and then cut into slabs to be used for applications like countertops, flooring, wall coverings, vanity tops and stair steps.
Sea Pearl quartzite quarry
3. What are the pros and cons of quartzite?
Quartzite is a naturally strong and very durable stone which is relatively heat resistant. One of the main benefits of quartzite is that many of the varieties have a similar look to marble, but require much less maintenance, so it can be a good option for consumers who would like marble countertops but want something sturdier.
Quartzite is not indestructible and should be sealed to help protect the surface from etching and stains. Sealing should be carried out by the installer when the quartzite is first installed, and should be re-applied periodically after that, approximately once per year (home application products are available for this). As with all natural stone surfaces, spills should be wiped up as soon as possible and we recommend the use of a trivet for hot pots and pans.
White Macaubas quartzite kitchen countertops
4. What color choices are available?
Quartzite forms in a range of colors. Natural, earth-toned hues are the most commonly seen. Neutral tones of white, grey and beige are popular for the trend toward lighter surfaces in the home. Quartzite can also be found in various other color options, such as blue, green, pink or red. The color variation depends on several factors such as the amount of iron oxide present, the region the stone comes from and the age of the stone.
Grey Goose quartzite tub surround
5. Are all the stones labelled as quartzite a true quartzite?
Quartzite is a term that is sometimes used quite loosely in the stone industry. It can be used to describe some stones which are more closely related to dolomites and marbles. It’s important to check with your fabricator if the stone you selected is a “soft” or “hard” quartzite. Here are some popular quartzites, and the categories they fall into:
- Hard quartzite: Sea Pearl, Taj Mahal, White Macaubas, Azul Macaubas, Perla Venata
- Soft quartzite: Grey Goose/Super White, Fantasy Brown
Visit your nearest Pacific Shore Stones showroom to view a large variety of hand-selected quartzite slabs from around the world, and receive expert advice and assistance from our team. Alternatively, browse our online inventory.
Fantasy Brown quartzite countertops