Facts

• Quartzite is a metamorphic rock, formed over millions of years from pressure and heat.

• Quartzite is composed of sand grains that form The sandstone is buried deep in the earth and becomes hotter and more compressed over time. The grains of sand fuse together to form a very dense stone.

• Quartzite is the hardest stone used on countertops. Most importantly – make sure it is a true quartzite!

• Although quartzite has been in the earth for millions of years, it was first commercially brought into production for countertops in 2002.

Positives

• Quartzite is a heat-resistant natural stone.

• Quartzite is a jaw-dropping stone that takes center stage in your space.

• A true quartzite rates a 7 on The Mohs Hardness It is harder than the blade of a knife.

• Quartzite is resistant to acids and will not etch, but only if it is a true quartzite.

• Our Taj Mahal is an example of true quartzite, a highly metamorphosed stone where minerals are tightly bonded together.

Things to Consider

• Quartzite can be a confusing stone. Some quartzites are mislabeled and are not true quartzite, but rather lean towards a dolomite/marble.

• The porosity of quartzite depends on the amount of metamorphosis the stone undergoes as it is formed.

• Quartzites that lean towards a dolomite/marble will etch and stain. Sealer will help, but not eliminate the risk of etching and stains.

• Quartzite will take longer to fabricate.

• Quartzite can show watermarks, which typically will dry after a period of time. Sealer will not completely prevent watermarks.

• Quartzite is more expensive than granite or quartz countertops.

• Natural fissures and pits in natural stone are common and usually pose no structural issues in the stone. The fissures and pits are natural to the stone and are viewed as characteristics, not defects.

• Quartzite may have variations in its finish. When light reflects on it, some areas may appear shinier than others. This is due to the resin/epoxy used in quartzite, which is used to bind areas of stone together.