Quartz vs. quartzite countertops
Quartz vs. quartzite countertops
$50 – $200 quartz countertops cost per square foot installed
$65 – $150 quartzite countertops cost per square foot installed
Quartz vs. quartzite countertops
The differences between quartz and quartzite are significant, though the names are similar. Both materials are popular choices for countertops, but they are distinct in price, composition, appearance, and maintenance needs. Quartz countertops cost $50 to $200 per square foot installed. Quartzite countertops cost $65 to $150 per square foot installed.
| Criteria | Quartz | Quartzite |
|---|---|---|
| Cost installed | $50 – $200 per square foot | $65 – $150 per square foot |
| Appearance | Manufactured with consistent, uniform patterns | Unique, natural veining and patterns |
| Color options | Wide range of colors and patterns available, including solid colors, speckled designs, and natural stone look-alikes | Limited color range with mainly natural stone colors like white, grey, brown, and beige |
| Thickness | Available from 2 cm to 4 cm (3/4” to 1 ½”) |
Available from 2 cm to 4 cm (3/4” to 1 ½”) |
| Durability | Very scratch and chip-resistant | Extremely scratch and chip-resistant but can chip or crack if struck with a heavy object |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 7 | 7 – 8 |
| Maintenance | Minimal with only soap and water cleaning needed | Requires regular sealing to maintain stain resistance and prevent etching |
| Heat resistance | High heat resistance, but prolonged exposure to temperatures over 300 °F can cause damage | Very high heat resistance, making it ideal for hot pots and pans |
| Environmental impact | Less energy-intensive to produce than quarrying natural stone; some brands use recycled materials | Can have an environmental impact due to quarrying activities and transportation |
| Uniformity | Consistent and uniform in color and pattern | Each slab is unique with natural variations in color and veining. |
| Resale value | Typically has a higher resale value than natural stone | Can have a high resale value depending on the specific type and quality |
What is quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed mineral quartz combined with resins and pigments to provide a consistent appearance throughout the slab. Most engineered quartz is made up of 90% to 93% natural quartz minerals and 7% to 10% resin.
Quartz comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, including veined or flecked options designed to mimic natural stone. Because the material is manufactured, it is also available in solid colors.
What is quartzite?
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that forms deep in the earth under extreme heat and pressure. Quartzite starts as quartz sandstone, which originally was simply sand. Over millions of years, the immense natural forces underground fused the quartz pieces together into solid slabs.
These dense rock slabs are mined and brought to factories where they are cut into countertops or other installations. Quartzite countertops have a beautiful, natural appearance with light and dark veining similar to marble, yet every piece is one-of-a-kind.
Difference between quartz and quartzite
Both quartz and quartzite offer high-end countertop options that add value and elegance to kitchens and bathrooms. Despite the similar names, they are made differently and have unique qualities when it comes to cost, aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and more.
Quartz vs. quartzite cost
Quartz countertops cost $50 to $200 per square foot installed. In comparison, quartzite countertops cost $65 to $150 per square foot with installation. Prices for both materials depend on the brand, slab quality and thickness, and edge treatment selected.
| Material | Average cost per square foot installed |
Average total cost installed (30 – 40 square feet) |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz | $50 – $200 | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Quartzite | $65 – $150 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Appearance
Quartz is an engineered stone with a more consistent and uniform appearance. Quartz has a wider range of colors and patterns than a natural stone, with bold and dramatic options created by adding different pigments, mirrors, or glass to the mixture.
Quartzite stone comes mostly in organic color variations of white, grey, brown, and beige. However, shades of blue, orange, green, yellow, pink, and red exist, with the more vivid colors costing more. The natural veining of quartzite mimics other stones like marble or granite.
Durability & maintenance
Quartz is non-porous and resists stains without sealing, only needing soap and water cleaning. The resin binder adds to the material's strength, making it highly scratch and chip-resistant and less prone to cracking than natural stones.
Quartzite is known for being extremely durable and resistant to scratches and heat, but like all natural stones, it can chip or crack if struck with a heavy object. The porous stone requires daily cleaning with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser and regular sealing to protect against stains.
Environmental impact
Quartz production requires more energy than quarrying natural stone. Also, the production of resins may involve the use of petrochemicals which can have environmental impacts. However, recycled materials can be used for better sustainability.
Quartzite is considered sustainable, but quarrying and transportation can have environmental impacts. Quarry waste can be minimized through responsible mining practices. In addition, natural stones are technically recyclable, as they can be repurposed in various construction applications.
Popular brands and colors
The top quartz brands that designers and homeowners prefer are Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone, and Corian Quartz. Some current on-trend neutral, white, and gray quartz colors include:
Brittanicca Cambria Quartz – White background with delicate gray veining
Calacatta Nuvo Quartz – Creamy white with striking gray/black marbling
Snowy Ibiza Quartz – Crisp bright white with a polished finish
Taj Mahal Quartz – Rich bright white with bold charcoal gray veining
London Gray Quartz – Dark gray base with delicate white patterning
Top quartzite brands include names like Cambria, MSI, Caesarstone, and Silestone. Some of the most popular current quartzite color selections include:
Taj Mahal Quartzite – Creamy white backdrop with dramatic dark gray veining
Fantasy Brown Quartzite – Rich gold and caramel tones blended throughout
Mont Blanc Quartzite – Light salt and pepper speckles on bright white
Marine Blue Quartzite – Soft blue-gray base with thin white marbling
Madreperola Quartzite – Vivid waves of gray, white, and black imperfections
Quartz and quartzite countertop FAQs
How do I tell quartz from quartzite countertops?
Quartz has more color options, is more uniform in color and patterning, and feels smoother in texture than natural stone.
In contrast, quartzite, a natural stone, will be more varied in pattern and usually comes in muted shades of white, gray, or beige. Also, quartzite feels slightly coarse and more textured to the touch.
Why should I choose quartz vs. quartzite countertops?
You should choose quartz if you want a budget-friendly countertop with minimal maintenance required and plenty of choices in colors and patterns to pick from.
You should choose quartzite if you want a one-of-a-kind look, prefer to set a hot pan on the counter without causing damage, and don’t mind a bit of maintenance.
Is quartz or quartzite easier to care for and maintain?
Quartz is significantly easier to care for and maintain than quartzite because it is non-porous, meaning liquids and stains cannot penetrate the surface. Quartz requires regular cleaning with soap and water and does not require sealing.
Getting estimates from countertop installers
Getting accurate and competitive estimates from countertop installers takes preparation and research. Here are some tips to help you choose the most qualified installer:
Schedule estimates with multiple installers with years of experience installing the material of your choice:
Research countertop brands, edge profiles, and other additional features like backsplashes you may want to include in your estimate.
Ask questions about the installation process, experience with your chosen material, warranty terms, and any potential hidden costs.
Don’t select an installer based only on their price; instead, compare the materials used, labor costs, warranties, and overall professionalism of each installer.
Contact the references provided by each installer to get firsthand accounts of their work quality and customer service.
Be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others, as they may indicate shortcuts or poor-quality materials.
Don't be afraid to negotiate the price. Be prepared to discuss your budget and see if the contractor is willing to work with you.
Before committing to any work, ensure all details are clearly outlined in a written contract. This protects both you and the installer.
Questions to ask your countertop installer
Before hiring a countertop installer, consider asking these questions:
How long have you been installing countertops?
Do you have experience installing my chosen countertop material?
Can you provide references from past clients?
Do you have the necessary licenses and insurance for this project, and can I see copies?
What services are included in the installation? (e.g., demo, plumbing, electrical)
What is your warranty on the installation?
Do you offer any warranties on the material itself?
What is the total cost of the project, including materials and labor?
Is there a payment schedule?
What happens if there are unexpected delays or changes?
Do you offer a variety of materials to choose from?
Can you explain the pros and cons of different materials?
How will you measure and create the template for my countertops?
Who will fabricate the countertops?
How will you protect my existing flooring and cabinets during the installation?
How long will the installation process take?
How should I care for and maintain my new countertops?
What should I avoid doing to prevent damage?
How do you handle changes to the project scope after work has begun?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.