If you’re shopping for countertops and other interior surfacing materials, you’ve probably come across “quartzite.” You’re not alone if you’re wondering, what is it? 

Here are seven things you need to know about quartzite: 

1. Quartzite is a natural stone
It’s a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that starts out as sandstone. Over time and under intense heat and pressure, it is turned into ultra-strong quartzite. It’s quarried and cut into slabs just like marble and granite. Quartzite is a great material for countertops, flooring, wall coverings, vanity tops, and stair steps. 

2. Quartzite is NOT the same as Quartz
Quartz is a natural material put together by man, is a manmade, engineered surface. Quartzite is natural stone. Because the names sound similar, the two are often confused. But they are not the same and do not feature the same properties. 
 
3. Quartzite is extremely hard 
Quartzite is a strong and durable stone that’s also resistant to many chemicals, extreme temperatures, and scratching. When it’s formed, the empty spaces between sandstone are filled with quartz—the hardest known mineral. Once it’s fused together over time with heat and pressure, the resulting stone will stand up to whatever the kitchen, bath, and rest of the home can dish out. There is a wide range of performance quartzite so be sure to ask a professional for help.


4. It’s strong, but quartzite is not bulletproof
Quartzite isn’t indestructible. It will need to be sealed once a year to help protect the surface from staining. In fact, a good sealer will help to enhance the rich flecks and veins of color. And as with all natural stone surfaces, spills should be wiped up as soon as possible and it’s always best to use a trivet for hot pots and pans. 
 
5. Quartzite is commonly found in neutral shades
Natural, earth tones are the most common colors for quartzite. Slabs typically trend toward lighter colors like white, grey, and beige. However, it can be found in various other color options such as blue, green, pink, and even red. The color variation depends on several factors such as the amount of iron oxide present, the specific region the stone comes from, and its age. 

6. It’s popular with designers. 
Quartzite offers a sophisticated look with crystalline sparkle, and durability. It comes in earth-toned shades, which is trending in interior design right now. In fact, quartzite often has a very similar look to marble, but with less maintenance. 

7. Not all stones labeled “quartzite” are the real thing
Sometimes the term “quartzite” is used a bit loosely in the stone industry. It may be used to describe stones that more closely resemble dolomite or marble. It’s very important to talk with your stone provider and understand what it is that you have and what it requires for maintenance and care. The best way to determine what kind of quartzite you’re dealing with is to pay a visit to the stone yard and do a scratch test. 

If you visit us at Marble & Granite, Inc., we’ll take the time to show you what to look for and how to find a quartzite slab that’s the real deal. Give us a call at 877-39-STONE to make an appointment or stop by one of our two New England showrooms .