Book an Appointment
Spotlight on Quartzite Countertops
It’s time to shine the spotlight on one of the most eye-catching and alluring natural stone materials. Keep reading to learn more about the quartzite countertop.
Quartzite and Hardness
We use a specific scale, the Mohs Hardness Scale, to measure a stone’s hardness level. Scores range from 1–10, with 1 being a very soft stone and 10 being the absolute hardest. For example, a diamond scores a 10.
On this scale, you’ll find that quartzite scores a sturdy 7, which means it’s harder than most other natural stones on the market—including granite! Thanks to this hardness, it’s not likely that quartzite will sustain your everyday scratches and scuffs.
But just because quartzite isn’t delicate doesn’t mean you should handle it roughly. It’s important to remember that it’s not indestructible; it’s resistant to damage.
The hardness of quartzite can also vary from slab to slab—that’s the beauty of investing in a material created by the earth. One slab might fall at the very tip of the Mohs Hardness Scale, while another slab might be as soft as marble. Where your slab falls simply depends on what happened during its formation.
Whether you have an especially hard slab of quartzite or a soft one, make sure to always use a cutting board when preparing food. It’s the best way to stay safe.
Quartzite Maintenance Level
Since quartzite is known for its looks that are similar to marble, many people mistakenly think that it comes with just as much maintenance. But if you want your countertop to look pretty without much work, you’re in luck.
Quartzite doesn’t ask for much more besides daily cleaning (warm water and soap will do just fine), and regular sealing. The sealing is due to the fact that quartzite is a porous stone and needs help remaining strong against liquid damage.
The Look of Quartzite
You’ll find quartzite base colors come in a variety of neutrals, including white, gray, and beige. But the base color isn’t what makes quartzite so special—it’s the sprinkles and splashes of colors that you’ll find throughout the stone thanks to the presence of iron oxides. Those shades are what makes a quartzite slab truly unique. You can find beautiful colors like pink, red, blue, yellow, and green scattered throughout your very own stone.
These bright colors within quartzite have the potential to brighten and liven up even the dullest kitchen. And it looks beautiful in natural sunlight—with the promise that the colors will never fade.
Quartzite and Quartz
It’s easy to see why quartzite and quartz are easily mistakable for each other. After all, the names are quite similar. But we urge you to get familiar with the differences between these two stones.
A quartzite countertop is made of natural stone, while a quartz countertop is man-made. The two have very different aesthetics, quartzite is porous while quartz isn’t, and quartz should never be installed outdoors—while quartzite can be. Make sure to clarify with a member of our team which material you’re looking for, and we’ll help you find the very best slab.
Quartzite at Affordable Quality Marble & Granite
We love all of our stone materials here at Affordable Quality Marble & Granite, and we’d love to show you the special qualities that quartzite has to offer. To learn more about this stone or to request a free quote on your countertop project, give us a call today at (803) 642-5416.