There seems to be a lot of confusion between quartz and quartzite. In this blog, we’ll talk about the differences between both and also discuss the best of the two amazing materials: White Quartzite and White Quartz.
These are both popular choices for countertops, floors, and other design projects. They’re loved for their beauty and durability, but they’re not the same.
By the end of this blog, you’ll know how they differ, what they’re best for, and which one might be right for your home.
Did you know? Quartzite has been a natural stone of choice for centuries due to its toughness, while engineered Quartz is now a modern favorite, growing in popularity by over 8.6% CAGR annually in interior design projects worldwide.
How it’s made? Quartz vs Quartzite
The way White Quartzite and White Quartz are made significantly affects their properties and uses. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of their manufacturing processes:
| Aspect | White Quartzite | White Quartz |
| Material | Natural sandstone transformed by heat and pressure | Crushed quartz crystals mixed with resin |
| Formation Process | Formed naturally over millions of years | Engineered in factories within days |
| Composition | 100% natural stone | 90-95% quartz with 5-10% resins and pigments |
| Customizability | Limited to natural variations | Highly customizable in color, texture, and size |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal, as it’s naturally sourced | Higher due to factory processing and resin usage |
Pro Tip: Quartzite’s natural formation gives it unique patterns and robust strength, while quartz’s engineered process allows for more design flexibility and a consistent appearance.
What is White Quartzite?
White quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock formed when stone is subjected to intense heat and pressure over millions of years. It is well-known for its beautiful marble-like appearance and high durability. The unique geological formation process gives this marble its characteristic veining patterns. As a result, it has a luxurious aesthetic that can add timeless elegance to any space.
What is White Quartz?
White Quartz is an engineered stone made from a combination of natural quartz crystals and resins. Through the manufacturing process, a non-porous, versatile, and highly customizable material is produced. Modern design often favors it for its natural stone look in addition to other benefits like low maintenance and a uniform appearance.
Key Differences Between White Quartzite and White Quartz
| Aspect | White Quartzite | White Quartz |
| Appearance | Natural patterns, marble-like veining | Uniform, customizable, with various color options |
| Cost | Higher, ranging from $70 to $200 per square foot | More affordable, typically $50 to $100 per square foot |
| Maintenance | Requires sealing and regular care | Low maintenance; no sealing needed |
| Durability | Highly durable, scratch-resistant | Durable but more prone to scratches than quartzite |
| Thickness | Available in 2-3 cm slabs; custom thickness possible | Standard thicknesses (1.5-3 cm); easy customization |
| Hardness | Very hard (7 on Mohs scale) | Slightly softer (6-7 on Mohs scale) |
| Porosity | Naturally porous; needs sealing | Non-porous due to resin content |
| UV Resistance | Suitable for exterior applications | Not suitable for outdoor use due to resin disintegration under UV light |
Which looks the best? Quartz or QUartzite?
- White Quartzite: Contains natural, marble-like patterns with veining and earthy colors, which are unique. Each slab is different and provides a custom look that cannot be duplicated. The natural beauty and refined luxury of wood make it ideal for high-end projects.
- White Quartz: It is a sleek option for modern and minimalist design. Quartz is available in many colors and finishes and offers uniformity and design flexibility, making it a popular choice among precision and design enthusiasts.
Pro tip: Choose quartzite if you value natural beauty and uniqueness. Choose Quartz if you value uniformity and a contemporary look.
Cost Comparison: Quartz or Quartzite?
- White Quartzite: Typically ranges from $70 to $200 per square foot, depending on the quality, origin, and processing expenses. The elevated cost stems from its natural formation and the challenges involved in its extraction.
- White Quartz: The price for white quartz typically falls between $50 and $100 for each square foot. It is manufactured so costs do not go totally haywire, allowing you to afford it as needed.
Pro Tip: For projects with tight budgets, there is no better choice than Quartz.
Which one is easier to maintain?
- White Quartzite: Maintaining White Quartzite requires periodic sealing to keep it stain- and moisture-resistant. Cleaning it with warm, soapy water every often will keep its natural beauty intact. Maintaining it is a bit harder than engineered options.
- White Quartz: Virtually maintenance-free. Its non-porous surface prevents staining and water damage, making it extremely easy to maintain, only requiring a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
Pro Tip: Use quartz in a high-use kitchen or bathroom for a low-maintenance surface.
Durability: Which one with last the longest?
- White Quartzite: It is a highly durable stone that is scratch- and heat-resistant. This is a perfect option for heavy footfall areas, outdoor use, and areas with high temperatures.
- White Quartz: While durable, White Quartz isn’t as scratch resistant and is less heat resistant than Quartzite. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, in most conditions, will cause discoloration, and the color would be unsuitable for outside use.
Pro tip: It is recommended to pick quartzite for outdoor use and high-heat areas.
Thickness and Customization
- White Quartzite: Usually designed in 2-3 cm standard thicknesses. Generally, you can achieve any desired thickness, provided that your cutting and finishing processes are specialized; however, this usually comes at a higher cost.
- White Quartz: It comes with standard thicknesses of 1 to 3 cm, which can be customized as per need. This engineered nature allows for complex cuts and lightweight slab solutions for various applications.
Pro Tip: Quartz can be made in different thicknesses, so you can create more detailed designs with it.
Which is harder? Quartz or Quartzite?
- White Quartzite: Ranks 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Hence, it will not chip, scratch, or wear easily. It’s ideal for challenging environments that need tough materials.
- White Quartz: Has a hardness of 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale. Although it’s tough, it can get minor scratches in high-use areas over time.
Pro tip: For areas with heavy use like countertops, quartzite has superior scratch resistance.
Porosity
- White Quartzite: It is porous, making sealing essential to prevent moisture absorption and staining, given that it is a natural stone. If not sealed properly, it can incur long-term damage in moist areas.
- White Quartz: The high resin content in White Quartz makes it non-porous and resistant to stains, bacteria, and moisture. Due to its non-porous nature, quartz is a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Pro tip: For hygiene, quartz is a better choice as compared to quartzite, marble and granite.
When to Choose White Quartz
White Quartz is the ideal choice if:
- You are looking for a uniform and customizable design that fits contemporary aesthetics smoothly.
- It is crucial to have low-maintenance qualities, particularly in commercial or busy residential settings.
- You have a tight budget, but you still want the colour and quality to look great.
- You’re designing a kitchen, washroom, or indoor space, which is not directly exposed to sunlight or heat.
- Your needs include a surface that is non-porous and and resistant to stains, bacteria, and water, which is essential.
When to Choose White Quartzite
White quartzite is the better option if:
- You appreciate the natural beauty and exclusive character of the stone.
- For your project, durability, heat resistance, and scratch resistance are of prime importance.
- You’re creating open spaces or places subjected to intense sun and soaring temperatures.
- You’re looking for a more durable material that looks like marble.
- Your project is capable of receiving periodic maintenance (such as sealing).
Get more help from us!
When it comes to choosing between White Quartzite and White Quartz, it boils down to your need. Even though quartz might be affordable, consistent, and low maintenance, quartzite is natural and durable, making it ideal for high-traffic and outdoor areas. Given that both types come with their advantages, you cannot go wrong regardless of the type you choose for your project.
Discover top-quality White Quartzite & White Quartz for your project at Petros® Stone. Our experts will help you choose the right material to turn your space into a masterpiece!
Feel free to get in touch for a free consultation, quote, and get a detailed understanding from our experts here at Petros®. Visit https://petrosstone.com/ or call +91-8446360361 and WhatsApp
Cot Ca Gold Granite
Black Wave Polished Granite
China White Granite
Pearl White Granite
Marquina Leather Granite
Red Lakha Granite
