You should also never use abrasive products on either material. What is Quartzite? Thankfully, it seems that both industry pros and consumers are becoming more discerning about what quartzite truly is, or is not. Quartzite begins its geologic life as sand grains, perhaps on a beach, desert dune, or riverbed. Quartzite can be typically found in lighter shades of color like white and gray , but some of its types are available in different color variations, depending on the mineral content. Etching, which is often confused for staining, can appear as discoloration that looks like dark water spots. For more information on the characteristics of quartz and its detailed comparison to quartzite, head on to our official guide of, Renovation vs Remodel (Differences & How to Choose). Keep in mind that quartzite is a natural stone, while the similarly named quartz … Quartzite is a nonfoliated metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz. What is Quartzite? However, since these two countertop types do have different compositions, they will also have different features. Quartz. Aside from the fact that they are very heavy, natural stone countertops are not recommended to be DIY’ed . Some colors of granite, specifically those that are a bit unusual, may get outdated and will not stay in style forever. The natural stone is one of the densest materials you will be able to find. However, quartzite is denser and harder than granite, which in turn makes it less porous too. Both quartzite and granite are sensitive to abrasive cleaners like bleach. The cooling process that granite undergoes allows for large crystals of the minerals to develop. Spectrum Stone Designs , Central Virginia’s leading natural stone fabricator, explains quartz vs. quartzite. Quartzite is also resistant to UV rays, which means it is perfect for outdoor settings and backyard kitchens. 1.1 Definition Quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock that forms by the metamorphism of pure quartz Sandstone Marble is a non-foliated metamorphic rock which is composed of recrystallized … Quartzite is 100% natural and is a metamorphic rock formed from sandstone. An article in Consumer Reports helps us to explain that quartz is a synthetic material made in a factory from stone chips, resins, and pigments while quartzite originated as sandstone. Unlike artificial and engineered stone countertops, granite countertops need to be sealed and this has to be redone every year to ensure that liquids do not penetrate its surface. Quartzite forms as a result of sandstone that has high quartz content being exposed to high amounts of heat and pressure. Compared to granite and marble, quartzite is less porous. CA Ingredient DisclosureSoap in Seconds Ingredient Disclosure, Home | Products | FAQ | Store Locator | Contact Us. With installation, you are looking to pay between $60 and $150 per square foot. The material make-up of  granite can vary depending on its type, which makes each piece unique. Sandstone is converted into quartzite through heating and pressure usually related to tectonic compression within orogenic belts. It can withstand daily wear and tear and can last long as long as it is taken care of. One of the strongest qualities of quartzite is its sophisticated beauty, It can easily render elegance, a luxurious feel and a pristine look to a space. For some homeowners, this leads them to quartz to save a little money. Part of the reason that quartz it less expensive is because it is easier to produce. Quartz is a man-made engineered stone formed by blending ground quartz (a natural hard mineral) with resins, polymers, and pigments to bind the ground quartz together. Beginning its life as sandstone, heat, and pressure bind the material to bits of quartz yielding quartzite. As a whole, it is a fabulous stone Because quartz countertops are made with pigments, it is possible for the countertops to come in a variety of different color options, including blues, purples, oranges, and more. As the individual particles of quartz recrystallize cool, they develop a smooth, glass-like stone that looks similar to marble. By definition, Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that is created when a quartz rich sandstone is subjected to high heat, extreme pressure and chemical activity of metamorphism. But granite is an igneous rock, which means that it has crystallized and solidified from lavas molten state. Additionally, the patterns within quartz countertops can be created to look a certain way. Quartzite, when fully installed, is likely to cost between $70 and $200. Let’s take a look at the formation and composition of each type of stone. Engineered quartz … For instance, you’re going to need a sealant on your quartzite countertop that you won’t need on engineered quartz … And on quartz, every little scratch is going to look like an abnormality on the stone. Both should be cleaned with a stone surface cleaner like Rock Doctor’s Granite & Quartz Cleaner that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that could damage the surface of the stone. Quartz and Quartzite are both popular materials for projects at Marble.com. Any potential buyers will be drawn to having them as part of their home. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock consisting largely or entirely of quartz 1.In the vast majority of cases, it is a metamorphosed sandstone. resistant to heat, scratching and chemical reactions. With this in mind, regardless of what you pick out, don't let spills sit for long lengths of time, NEVER put Quartz countertops range from $50 per square foot to $110 per square foot. To learn more about caring for quartz or quartzite countertops properly, contact Rock Doctor today at 913-894-0288. The biggest difference between quartz and quartzite counters is that quartzite is a natural stone whereas quartz is a man-made material. … Quartzite is a porous material that needs to be sealed often to prevent any moisture from penetrating the surface. Quartz is man-made. It is mined before it can be turned into the countertops that many people love. There are a variety of options for counter top materials you can use in your home or business. Some common household items which can result in etching include lemons, sodas, ketchup and some cleaning products. Let's Compare. Quartzite, granite, and quartz are very resistant though. Quartzite vs. Quartz Countertops Today, these are popular choices for countertops. When it comes to maintenance, granite and quartzite countertops require pretty much the same procedures. 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