10 Things to Know About Quartzite

Quartz is a very common type of countertop material; this is because it is a strong and attractive option. A lesser known but similar sounding stone is quartzite, which has gained significant popularity in recent years. Take note that quartz and quartzite are not the same material. The beauty and durability of quartzite countertops make for a stand-up choice which our clients have loved time and time again. Read on to learn more about quartzite, how to care for it, and ways it compares to other stone.

Quartzite Facts

Quartzite is formed when grains of sand fuse under heat and pressure.

Extremely hard-wearing, quartzite rates a seven on the Mohs Hardness scale of 1-10. This ranking is firmer than a steel nail.

Quartzite has been used to make tools and weapons since prehistoric times. In Comanche County, Oklahoma, Ogallala quartzite tools were found during road construction in the 1960’s.

Considered a semi-precious stone, quartzite can be used as an April birthstone.

Crushed quartzite is sometimes used in road construction.

Quartz, Granite & Marble vs. Quartzite

Quartzite stone is completely natural, while quartz is man-made or ‘engineered’.

Neither quartzite nor quartz stains, burns or scratches.

The heat resistance for quartzite is comparable to that of granite.

Because of quartzite’s rarity, it can be more expensive than granite.

Like marble, quartzite is a form of non-foliated metamorphic rock withpatterns known as ‘veining’.

Quartzite is hardier than marble, which makes it ideal for high traffic areas in the home, like the kitchen.

Unlike marble, quartzite does not etch from acids such as lemon juice or vinegar.

Many Varieties of Quartzite to Choose From

TNT proudly sources over 180 varieties of quartzite. Here are a few of the popular ones.

Taj Mahal has a subtle white background, and light, yet distinct veining, typically in beige or tan. This takes the form of large whirl designs.

Mont Blanc is creamy white with thin veins of both grey and gold.

Blue Roma has a blue background, and features gold and brown swirling.

Bianco Superiore’s soft white coloration contrasts with its sweeping charcoal grey veins.

Avocatus overlaps light and dark green shades alongside black and white spots and veining.

Other styles include Allure White, Aqua Exotica, Black Riviera, Brazilian Fossil, Bronzite, Cosmopolitan, Cristallo Fire, Emerald Sea, Platinum, Pure Warm Luxe, Sahara Gold, Sterling Silver, Swan, Tiffany Elegance and Zeus.

The Many Uses of Quartzite

Often found in kitchens due to their durability, quartzite slabs are also great in other rooms! Bathroom vanities, dressing tables, and even tabletops are perfect places. In professional settings, quartzite is impressive and hardy for areas with frequently traffic such as receptionist desks, meeting rooms, and showrooms.

Quartzite is also a popular choice for outdoor spaces. The durability is appreciated by avid entertainers, the luxurious look appeals to design-conscious homeowners, and the ease of maintenance is a selling point for busy parents too!

Easy Care & Simple Maintenance Tips for Quartzite

Caring for quartzite countertops involves a soft cloth with soap and warm water. This is a daily recommendation. Spills should be cleaned up in a reasonable amount of time, such as within less than several hours.

Cleaners made specifically for natural stone are great for quartzite, while general disinfectant wipes are also acceptable for spills which may contain bacteria. Avoid strong cleaning acids like rust remover, as well as solvents, 100% bleach, and ammonia. Oven cleaners should also be rinsed with water right away. Further, do not use vinegar or citrus-based cleaners to clean your countertop unless you are 100% sure it is truly 100% quartzite.  

As with most materials, use of a cutting board is endorsed. True quartzite countertops are extremely scratch resistant, but cutting directly on them will destroy the edges of knives and other sharp utensils. It is also advised that trivets are utilized with high heat items. This prevents damage.

As noted in a previous blog “What To Know About Sealing Countertops”, natural stone is porous, which means food, liquids, cleaning supplies, and even condensation can all be absorbed, causing damage and staining. Sealing countertops prevents unsightly damage. Quartzite must be sealed at least once per year, especially around the edges.

Quartzite Buying Guide

When choosing materials, it is important to have the information. This will prevent issues, saving both time and money. Before deciding to use quartzite in your home or business, here are a few things to consider.

Quartzite varieties which come in a honed or suede/leathered finish can develop a stunning patina as time passes. While most homeowners embrace the aging process of this finish, patination is something to consider when deciding on which finish to have, as the appearance will change in this manner.

Due to its density, quartzite can be heavier than other stone and thereforedifficult to install. Extra support structures may be required to ensure safe and secure placement, especially for larger countertop areas. Installing quartzite on vertical surfaces, such as walls, can also be challenging because of its heft, requiring careful handling and expertise. These endeavors are best left up to professionals such as TNT Countertops.

Evaluate lighting, cabinets, and other installed stone when making a choice. Lighting particularly plays such a significant role in how the colors of the stone and veins look in a space. Using samples, consider both natural and artificial lighting, as well as whether coordination or a contrasting is the plan. After sample use helps with elimination, review the full slab options, as thoseare the best way to get a true sense of pattern and color.

Long-term appeal is another important contemplation. If you plan to remain in the space for an extended amount of time, how will the quartzite you pick go along with evolving style preferences? If selling is in the near future, how will the stone appeal to potential buyers?

Want to learn more? Have questions? Connect with us today to see what we have on-site, what can be ordered, and how to incorporate quartzite into your space! Compare all the slab options and don’t forget to check out our remnants.