The Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite Countertops

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Your kitchen counters can make or break the space. The right material brings both beauty and function to the room, so it’s important to review your options carefully and make an informed decision. Of course, that’s easier said than done. With so many options available, how do you even begin to choose the best material for your home?

Let’s narrow the conversation down to two popular countertop materials that are easy to mix up: quartz and quartzite. What’s the difference between the two? Which one is right for your kitchen? Find the answers with this rundown of the difference between quartz and quartzite countertops.

Quartz: Engineered Stone for Complete Control

Both quartz and quartzite are types of stone. However, quartz is engineered stone, which means that it’s a manufactured material. Engineers bind quartz crystals—which come from quartzite—with resins, pigments, and other materials to create quartz. What does this mean for your countertops? This engineering process gives manufacturers complete control over the material, meaning they can mold quartz into custom shapes or blend it with pigments to achieve a variety of colors.

Another benefit of quartz is its flexibility, which allows it to hold up well against dents, chips, and other damage. Quartz is also extremely low maintenance; you can clean it easily with nothing more than a damp cloth.

Quartzite: Natural Stone for a Unique Look

Quartzite is a natural stone, which means suppliers quarry it directly from the earth. Each quartzite slab boasts unique colors and vein patterns that will never repeat in nature. Your quartzite counter will be a true one of a kind.

There are other benefits of quartzite, including its extreme durability (it’s even harder than granite!) and its natural heat resistance. That said, quartzite is more porous than quartz, so you’ll need to seal it to prevent liquids from seeping into the stone and causing damage or stains.

Which Is Right for Your Home?

Now that you know the difference between quartz and quartzite countertops, how do you choose the right one for your kitchen? It all comes down to how you use the space.

If you spend a lot of time cooking complex meals, a durable, scratch-resistant quartzite counter might be the right choice for you. But if stains are a bigger concern for you—for example, if you have a lot of little ones trying to help out in the kitchen—stain-resistant quartz is the better option. At the end of the day, both quartz and quartzite deliver reliable durability and incredible beauty, making them wonderful options for your kitchen counters.

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