Homeowners often struggle to distinguish between granite and quartzite when selecting natural stone countertops due to how very alike they appear at first sight. They both possess the same qualities; that is, they are both natural stones that have spectacular designs and are both long-lasting options for kitchen countertops.
Because of the aforementioned similarities, many people assume they are pretty much the same type of stone. However, there are very significant differences between the two types of stones that will impact how each stone looks, how each stone is maintained, how durable each stone is, and finally, how long each stone will last based on the care received.
If a homeowner is aware of the distinctions noted above, then they will make a better-investigated purchase and ultimately select a countertop that fits their personal lifestyle and decorative tastes.
Granite is an igneous rock created by the slow crystallization of molten lava below the Earth’s surface. The extended cooling period allows for the creation of unique crystal accounts and differences in the variety of minerals in any granite slab, which is why no two are identical.
Due to its incredible strength and beauty, granite countertops have been a staple in kitchens for centuries and can be found in a broad range of colors and styles. Because of the natural variability of stone, there is an enormous amount of variability from the look of your countertop compared to another one based on the types and amounts of minerals found in that area.
The geological composition of granite means that each slab is comprised of a combination of at least three different types of minerals (quartz, feldspar, and mica), resulting in the various bold patterns that can be seen throughout the stone slab.
Quartzite originates from a type of sandstone that has undergone metamorphism through extreme pressure and heat for millions of years, resulting in a very tough, composite stone material (a type of natural stone).
The texture and color of many quartzite slabs come very close to imitating that of marble, creating a beautiful and appealing look that many homeowners desire.
A preferred reason(s) for quartzite’s popularity is that while it still provides the elegant-looking visual effect associated with marble, it has at least four times more longevity than marble as well.
In general, quartzites are found in a variety of shades of white, gray, beige, and various soft earth tones. Many also feature bold and unique veining and/or movement that can serve as a focal element in the kitchen.
Granite versus quartzite is a common confusion due to the fact that they look very similar in a showroom.
Different granite slabs often show some subtle veins, while some quartzite slabs look like granite but with a grainier texture.
Granite and quartzite both market as high-quality natural stone countertop material, and both have similar attributes that make them desirable: heat resistant, durable, and able to achieve a polished finish that provides a pleasant visual appearance.
When going to a store and there is no signage or professional sales help to distinguish the two products from each other, homeowners will have a difficult time knowing which one to pick.
The best way to know how to make a selection would be to deal with certified professional countertop experts that can provide insight into the unique properties of granite and quartzite.
Granite and quartzite are both known to be the toughest countertop materials available, making them great choices for kitchens that get a lot of use.
Granite countertops are highly resistant to scratches, chips, and heat, meaning that they will last for many years with regular cooking and heavy usage without showing a lot of wear.
If the granite countertop has been sealed correctly, it can last for many decades while looking as good today as when it was installed.
Quartzite typically is harder than granite. Due to this, quartzite is exceptionally resistant to scratches and impact damage and is therefore one of the strongest natural stones available for residential countertops.
In instances where durability is the highest priority for the homeowner, quartzite will have a slightly greater performance than granite, but both offer excellent performance in kitchens that endure heavy use.
Granite & quartzite have a few similarities.
Maintenance is one similarity, as both types of stone need to be periodically sealed to help prevent staining from moisture and other spills.
For example, granite requires sealing every 1-3 years, depending on the production of stone and how it’s used, but routine cleaning with soap and warm water can help to maintain the stone’s natural beauty.
Likewise, quartzite requires regular sealing; even though it is very durable, it can absorb liquids through unmaintained or uncovered surfaces.
The good news is that you can provide the care needed on a daily basis without needing to use any cleaning supplies that may be specialty items.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a natural stone option that requires little maintenance, both granite & quartzite can be very easy to care for if properly sealed.
The deciding factor in selecting from granite or quartzite is often related to personal taste.
Granite provides more color options than any other stone; it can be found in many different shades, from the blacks to the blues, reds, greens, and golds to the earth tones and shades between.
Also, the finished crystals give depth to the stone and character to the design regardless of the style of the kitchen.
The perceived elegance and sophistication of quartzite’s finished product are one of its main appeals; its “marble-like” veining provides an upscale and, therefore, appealing appearance for many homeowners that are creating an upscale/expensive kitchen design.
In the end, your choice relies on whether you prefer the dramatic natural patterns of granite or the subtle flowing veining of quartzite.
Rarity, slab thickness, color, and origin all impact the pricing of both granite and quartzite.
Due to its unusual look and complex fabrication, quartzite is typically more expensive than granite.
In addition to the larger variety of prices, granite has an abundance of options for homeowners to use to select beautiful stones within their budget.
Higher demand and outstanding durability make quartzite an increasingly more expensive countertop choice.
The cost must account for both initial cost and long-term return on investment for each type of stone.
Your choice of granite or quartzite depends upon what’s most important to you.
If having a wide range of color/pattern choices available in various price ranges is important to you, then granite could be your best option.
On the other hand, if you prefer an elegant look (like marble) but would like that same look combined with a more durable material (like quartzite), then quartzite might be the answer.
Comparing two different kinds of material by seeing full-sized slabs in person is one of the best methods to do so.
Natural stone varies a great deal from images, and seeing the actual piece of stone will allow you to realize the true uniqueness of its appearance and other characteristics; for example, shades of color will often be much different as seen on-screen than as they appear in person.
While quartzite is typically harder than granite & better scratch-resistant than granite, both granite & quartzite will perform well as kitchen counters.
Picking a countertop based only on durability would not be wise; rather, you should base your decision on aesthetic appeal, cost or budget, and a look that best complements your project.
Granite will generally have a more grainy surface and visible mineral crystals, while quartzite will typically have flowing veins that will more closely resemble marble than granite does.
Unfortunately, since the differences are subtle, it might be beneficial to enlist the help of an expert during your selection process.
Both granite & quartzite countertops should be sealed at regular intervals to help prevent staining and moisture penetration.
Proper and timely sealing will not only protect your stone countertop but also ensure it retains its original beauty for many years.
Although there is a large variance, in general, quartzite will be more expensive than granite.
This price difference can be attributed to its limited availability in the market, appearance, and the expense associated with fabrication.
Granite and quartzite both have excellent heat resistance, meaning that hot pots or pans can be placed on either type of countertop without worrying about causing any damage to them.
However, to maintain the surface finish of your countertop over time, you should use trivets or pads.
Kowalski Granite & Quartz offers you the most amazing choices of rocks, such as granite, quartz, and solid stone, that can be used in your home!
Our West Michigan showroom has over 200 full slabs available at any one time, with over 80 different colors in stock.
We have a huge amount of choice when it comes to granite, quartz, and quartzite.
So whether you are comparing granite and quartzite to make sure you get the best choice of stone countertop for your kitchen and/or bathroom or looking for something else, our experienced staff will help you choose your countertop from a range of materials!
Come visit us and take a look at our full slabs today – no appointment necessary!
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