Quartzite vs Quartz

If you're confused by the similar-sounding quartz that's available, you're not alone. They may sound a lot alike, but the truth is that they are very different materials altogether. Quartzite is a natural metamorphic stone formed when sand is heated and compressed within the earth. Quartz contains pieces of ground quartz combined with resin and polymers to create a man-made material that's pretty and strong.

Because quartz is man-made, it can be a less expensive option than quartzite for large, complicated jobs. However, it is not as heat or scratch resistant, and this makes a big difference in how the material performs in the kitchen. Quartz is more flexible, so it does tend to chip less than the natural stone.

Quartz does have more color options. This is because pretty much any color pigment you want can be added in when the material is being made, so you can find quartz that looks fairly natural, like a real piece of stone would, or some that looks colorful and trendy, with obviously unnatural coloring designed to make a statement.

Because quartz is completely non-porous, it is less prone to stains and bacterial growth. Quartzite countertops are less porous than some other stones, but it may still require a sealant to prevent stains. This gives quartz a slight edge where maintenance is concerned, but if you are very rough on your countertops, quartzite is probably going to be a better choice for you.