Does Quartzite Make a Good Countertop?
Yes. Quartzite is incredibly durable, relatively simple to maintain, and features all the depth and beauty of natural stone. Whether quartzite is the best countertop for your lifestyle, however, may be determined by the answers to some of the questions below.
What Is Quartzite?
Quartzite is a naturally-occurring stone quarried from the earth. Tiny grains of crystalline mineral quartz —what we know as sand — bond with other rock and organic matter to form sandstone. When sandstone deep within the earth is subjected to heat and pressure it becomes quartzite, “a network of interlocking quartz grains of incredible strength,” says geology.com.
Unpolished quartzite rock.
This geological pedigree gives quartzite its durability, its resistance to heat, cracks and scratches, and its uniqueness. No two slabs of quartzite are exactly alike.
Is Quartzite the Same as Quartz?
No. While both are made up primarily of quartz crystals, quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed material. Quartzite is a naturally-occurring stone quarried whole from the earth and cut into slabs. For more information on quartz countertops, see our Quartz page.
Is Quartzite a Type of Marble?
Although quartzite often has the beautiful veining and luster of marble, geologically speaking it is completely different. Marble is made of calcite, dolomitic marble is calcite with a bit of magnesium, while quartzite is made of mostly mineral quartz. At times, though, a marble slab may contain a small amount of quartz crystal and can be mislabeled either intentionally or by mistake. To avoid problems, only do business with a reputable and knowledgeable shop.
Quartzite often looks like marble, but the two stones are very different.
WHITE DIAMOND QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS IN SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI, BY WILGUSIQ
Does Quartzite Etch?
No. If a slab etches when it comes into contact with acid, it is not pure quartzite. It could be marble or contain traces of calcium carbonate.
Will Quartzite Scratch?
It’s difficult to scratch real quartzite stone, but not impossible. Quartzite scores a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means it’s harder than a common knife blade. Still, an extremely sharp object can scratch the protective seal on quartzite countertops and even the stone itself if enough force is applied. To protect the seal and avoid dulling your knives, we recommend using a cutting board.
Will Quartzite Crack or Chip?
Under normal circumstances quartzite is extremely crack and chip resistant. Both quartzite fabrication and installation require a great deal of skill. If done incorrectly, chipping or cracking can result. That’s why you want a countertop shop that is expert in working with quartzite.
If you see what looks like a crack or chip in a quartzite slab or countertop, it may actually be a natural fissure or pitting. What’s the difference?
Fissures occur naturally as different minerals come together to form the composite stone. Fissures are part of the stone and are not a cause for concern, but significant cracks can harm the integrity of the stone and should be repaired.
Quartzite is composed of tiny crystals. When a crystal is dislodged, it leaves behind a hole. This is called pitting. These pits are not flaws, but larger ones can be filled if you prefer. Chips, however, are pieces that have been knocked out through blunt force. Most chips can be repaired, and WilgusIQ offers repair services if an accident should occur after installation.
Quartzite countertops can be sealed to protect against stains.
ALEXANDRITA QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS IN SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI BY WILGUSIQ
Does Quartzite Need to Be Sealed?
The purpose of sealing is to close up the pores of a stone to keep bacteria and stains out. Quartzite is a porous rock and so will benefit from sealing, but it is less porous than marble and granite.
Will Quartzite Stain?
Liquids that stain can enter into any porous stone, and quartzite is a porous stone. You can protect your quartzite countertops by following recommended cleaning guidelines (see below) and checking the countertops periodically to see if they need resealing. To check, just pour a tablespoon of water on several places along the surface. If the water is absorbed quickly, the countertop needs to be sealed.
How Do I Clean Quartzite Countertops?
Sealed quartzite cleans up easily with gentle soap and water and a soft cloth, but abrasive or acid-based cleaners can damage the seal and should be avoided. Simple measures like not allowing spills to sit on countertops and drying them off after cleaning will keep all countertops, including quartzite, looking their best.
How Much Do Quartzite Countertops Cost?
Quartzite slabs generally have a higher starting price than granite and are on par or above engineered quartz, but there is a wide range of price based on availability.