Dena Mazza of Foxtale Design using IRG Super White Pental Quartz
Quartz or Quartzite?
Quartz and quartzite are popular surfaces homeowners come across when searching for countertops. Despite sounding like similar surfaces, quartz and quartzite are different and distinct materials: quartz is a manmade, engineered surface, and quartzite is a natural stone mined from quarries all over the world.
The Confusion
The confusion between quartz and quartzite often lies in the fact that quartz geologically refers to a crystalline mineral containing silicon and oxygen. Natural quartzite slabs are made up of mineral quartz-rich sandstone. And quartz countertops are primarily made up of these crushed quartz minerals combined with a resin that holds it together. IRG’s Pental Quartz is made up of 90-93% quartz minerals and 7-10% resin.
In this article, we will further break down the differences between quartz and quartzite, as well as the pros and cons of each surface.
IRG’s Pental Quartz Amarcord
How to Tell the Difference
QUARTZ
Quartz has been growing in popularity as a countertop surface for the past ten years. Unlike granite and quartzite, quartz is non-porous and stain resistant. Because of this, there is no need to apply a sealer on the surface.
Easy maintenance is one reason some are partial to quartz, especially since it doesn’t necessarily need to be sealed. Quartz can resist staining more than natural stones like granite and quartzite, which must be regularly sealed for maximum protection. Unlike granite and quartzite, quartz is not recommended for use on fireplaces, directly behind stovetops and ranges, or outdoors. Due to the resin content within quartz, major drawbacks like its non-resistance to heat over 250°F and lack of UV resistance come into play. Therefore, it is advised not to place hot items directly from the stove or oven on the countertop. High heat exposure over time can lead to warping of the surface, so fireplace, stove backsplash, and steam shower applications should also be avoided. However, this may be a valuable trade-off since quartz usually costs less per square foot than quartzite. It is important to note that quartz is priced per slab since they come in conventional sizes, while slabs of natural stone come in a variety of sizes and are priced per square foot.
With the quartz craze going strong, manufacturers are constantly coming out with new lines and colors. Vein sizing and color offerings make quartz more distinguishable from quartzite. Quartz collections offer colorways that mimic marble‘s lighter tones, often with smaller veins and undertones not typically found in marble selections. They can also provide a pure white or medium grey background that is hard to find in quartzite naturally.
Clients, as well as various quartz brands, are focusing now more than ever on lighter-colored quartz with veining as opposed to the darker-speckled tones as a result, which were prevalent in the years past. The shift comes as no surprise, though. As we know, white marble has become a timeless staple for many kitchen countertops, erasing the general industry consensus from the past couple of decades that marble is for bathrooms and granite for kitchen countertops. This means we’ll see an increased interest in affordable white marble-looking surfaces, which engineered materials like quartz can provide.
IRG’s Cielo Quartzite / Photography by Adam Potts
QUARTZITE
Made from sandstone found beneath the earth’s surface, quartzite is a natural stone that is quarried like granite and is just as sturdy. Not to be confused with engineered quartz, quartzite is more heat resistant and can be used safely around a fireplace or outdoor fire pit. Sometimes avoided because of its price point, quartzite can be thought of as a more budget-friendly alternative to marble, which is prone to etching, scratching, and staining. It also is extremely accommodating of detail-oriented installations; for example, the continued trend of large, edge-to-edge waterfall islands and other expansive kitchen surfaces can be harder to accomplish with quartz due to more recognizable seams.
The many textures and patterns of quartzite also set it apart from manufactured quartz. Its natural veining makes it prime for bookmatched installations, especially for those drawn to a more seamless look and organic feel. From freckled organic movement to caramel crystallized veins, quartzite is a product of earth’s purest form of natural beauty. Quartzite offers an expansive range of patterns, tones, and movement that can’t be manufactured. This makes quartzite highly sought after by designers and homeowners who value charm and precision that will withstand the test of time.
IRG’s Amarcord Quartz
Trendy vs. Timeless
It doesn’t look like the quartz craze will end anytime soon. And we’re not complaining! There’s no doubt that quartz countertops are an affordable, durable, and modern option for kitchens and bathrooms. Going for a basic dark grey bathroom countertop? Quartz works great! Craving the look of white marble veining? There’s a quartz for that! However, if you find your design needs align with a more natural finish, quartzite might be the longer-lasting, low-maintenance, and cost-effective option when compared to quartz and marble.
Considering marble in your kitchen instead? Read our guide, To Marble or Not To Marble? That is the Question, which compares the pros and cons of marble applications with other natural and engineered surfaces.
Carrying the largest selection of superior-grade, elegant, beautiful, and long-lasting natural stone available in the world today, including marble, granite, quartzite, and onyx, as well as an array of engineered surfaces, including quartz and porcelain slab, we welcome the opportunity to assist you throughout your decision-making process and design journey. Dedicated to helping you create the kitchen of your dreams, we invite you to visit our showroom and allow our experts and creative consultants to help you choose the perfect surface for your home. As unique as the individual, we treat every project with the utmost care, paying special attention to each client’s specific needs, budget, lifestyle, and style preferences. Call IRG at (415) 657-0280 or visit us at a showroom convenient to you in Brisbane, Dublin, or Sacramento.
Just as the kitchen is the heart of the home, countertops are the centerpiece of the kitchen. The decision as to which material to use to create these centrally located, highly-used areas is an important one whether you’re a homeowner, designer, or architect. When choosing the best and most appropriate material for the surface, it’s important to understand the functionality, durability, maintainability, longevity, costs, and appearance of each one.
No two pieces of natural stone are the same, nor are they perfect. In fact, it is the variation in each slab that gives the material its innate beauty. Because it can be overwhelming when shopping for and comparing one material to another, we have compiled this guide to help you through the decision-making process.
The question of whether to choose marble, other natural stone, or an engineered material for your kitchen or bathroom, comes down to this: How does marble stack up?
Calacatta Medici used by homeowner and designer Mia Conway
From the Lincoln Memorial to the Taj Mahal, marble has been the material of choice for the world’s most famous works of art and iconic structures for centuries. Elegant, dramatic, and lustrous, marble is a natural and unique material, a precious gift from the earth with colors and patterns that are completely singular, unpredictable, and non-repetitive.
Durable, beautiful, and incomparable are just some of the adjectives that describe this stately stone, so we believe it’s important to understand a little bit about its origins to fully appreciate its value.
The Origin of Marble
For marble to be created, many processes must align, and separate forces must occur. It is only at the end of a long process that marble can be harvested from the earth and enjoyed for its glorious texture, innate strength, and unparalleled beauty.
Classified as metamorphic stone, marble originates as limestone, a rock composed of calcite along with the remnants of shells, coral, fossils, and other sea debris. As these pieces settle and erode, they form layers of sediment that deepen after many years.
Limestone at this stage is a sedimentary rock that is frequently mined for construction uses of its own. If left untouched and subjected to the earth’s immense heat and pressure, over millions of years, the minerals within limestone will recrystallize and begin to form the structure of marble.
Monte Corchia quarry located in the Apuan Alps of Carrara, Italy
Composition
Marble is composed of approximately 99.5% pure calcium carbonate and a mix of other minerals. The combination and composition of these minerals during metamorphism give each marble its distinct veining and variations in color. It is during this formation process that the marble’s inherent physical properties such as hardness and durability are also determined.
Qualities
Marble is a naturally porous stone, which is one of the most common concerns when considering marble over other materials for kitchen countertops. When properly maintained, however, marble not only gets more beautiful with age, but is strong, durable, and resilient enough to last for generations.
This timeless maturation is one reason why there has been a resurgence of traditional Italian marbles, like Calacatta Viola and Calacatta Monet. Their brecciated movement—indicative of vivid pebble-like, circular veining—gives a classic touch to modern spaces.
Known for having a crisp backdrop, marbles are the most desired and in demand the whiter they are. Movement and veining are also hallmarks of marble that increase a slab’s value. As one of the most reputable of marbles, Calacatta is known for gray veining with gold tinges and a bright white background. More distinct veining indicative of a traditional Calacatta will have a higher price point compared to varieties with more clouded movement. Alternatively, Carrara marbles lean more gray but are still sought after as they’re considered to be an affordable variety within the white marble family.
Calacatta Monet used by RV Builders | Photography: Bess Friday
How Marble Compares
Granite
Whereas the movement within marble can resemble swirling veins, Granite contains color variations that appear as flecking throughout the stone. For decades it has acted as a durable and reliable natural stone for kitchen countertops.
Granite has a hardness score of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it highly resistant to scratches and damage from heat. An ideal material for kitchen counters both inside and outside the home, granite countertops will not easily scuff or discolor from everyday household activities.
Quartz
Not to be confused with Quartzite, Quartz is a man-made stone that has gained popularity in recent years as a versatile and low-maintenance alternative to natural stone countertops.
Because quartz is manufactured in a factory, the slabs are more consistent and durable than marble or other natural stone slabs. Quartz is non-porous, making it stain resistant without the need to seal the surface. However, due to its resin content, quartz can be susceptible to heat damage at high temperatures and discoloration from the sun. If quartz is used on a table or kitchen countertop, protection from heated elements such as hot plates, pots, or bakeware is required. It is not recommended as a backsplash surface behind the stovetop or range.
Quartzite
Another all-natural stone, quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed from sandstone that has been subjected to high temperatures and pressure beneath the earth’s surface. Reaching a 7 to 8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, quartzite is today’s go-to natural stone choice for kitchen countertops and other high-traffic spaces due to its durability over marble in addition to its soft, veined look.
Quartzite countertops are also resistant to scratches, acids, etching, heat, and sunlight, making them an excellent option for both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Though quartzites rarely rival the bright background of white marble, light quartzites featuring neutral tones of beige, tan, and gray are often used as marble alternatives. Although quartzite requires upkeep through sealing to ensure its longevity, well-maintained quartzite countertops will resist wear and tear and last for years, if not decades.
Porcelain
Made of the clay mineral kaolinite, porcelain is known for its delicate aesthetic and resistance to elements like acid, heat, water, and fire. Compared to other engineered materials like quartz, porcelain has a higher heat resistance and touts a particularly realistic replication of marble veining.
Unlike marble, however, the veining and patterns of porcelain are only surface-level, which is why chips, cuts, and abrasions must be professionally repaired to restore the surface’s original appearance. Porcelain is more difficult to cut and shape on a fabrication level, making edge details less customizable than marble, which holds its natural beauty.
Types of Finishes
To prolong the beauty of marble, it’s important to parse through finish options that best serve the needs of a space or installation. Polished marbles are ideal for enhancing a slab’s natural colors, vibrancy, and veining. Honed finishes give marble surfaces an organic feel with a matte appearance that adds depth, dimension, and texture. They’re also the most forgiving finishes as honed marbles will not show etch marks as noticeably when in contact with acidic ingredients.
Calacatta Viola used by Birch + Tailor | Photography: Thomas Kuoh
Care
Etching happens when acid stains or eats the material on marble surfaces. Although prone to etching, sealing marble can help prevent surface stains. Diligently sealing your marble countertops every year (or 5-10 years, depending on the type of sealer) will also help to maintain their luxurious qualities and condition. In addition to sealing marble slabs, you’ll also want to protect your surface by adhering to the following tips:
Blot up spills immediately.
Do not use acidic cleaners with lemon or vinegar.
Do not use acidic bathroom cleaners or oven cleaners.
Do not use abrasive cleaners or sponges.
Clean with a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, and non-abrasive or mild soap daily or as needed.
Use a pH-balanced cleaner specifically for marble and stone or a mild, phosphate-free, biodegradable dishwashing detergent such as Dawn mixed with water for regular cleaning.
Thoroughly rinse and dry marble surfaces with clean, clear water after washing dishes.
Keep acids like vinegar, tomato sauce, lemon juice, and harsh cleaners from coming into contact with the surface.
Place trivets, coasters, and other heat absorbents under hot or scratch-prone items
Sealing your selection can help protect and prolong its lifespan. There are various sealers available on the market.
Topical Sealers are coatings designed to protect the surface of the stone against water, oil, and other contaminants. They are formulated from natural wax, acrylic, and other plastic compounds.
Impregnators are water or solvent-based solutions that penetrate below the surface and become repellents. They are either hydrophobic (water-repelling) or oleophobic (oil-repelling). Impregnators keep contaminants out but do not stop the interior moisture from escaping. Considered “breathable, Impregnators have vapor transmission.
Making the decision about which natural material to use for your countertops is an important one, as you will likely be living with this choice for years—if not decades—to come. The largest in-stock provider of natural stone slabs in the Bay Area, carrying product lines that are unsurpassed in the industry, IRG is passionate about educating our customers. Contact or visit one of our showrooms to speak with a stone expert about your choices.
Carrying the largest selection of superior-grade, elegant, beautiful, and long-lasting natural stone available in the world today, including marble, granite, quartzite, and onyx, as well as an array of engineered surfaces, including quartz and porcelain slab, we welcome the opportunity to assist you throughout your decision-making process and design journey.
Dedicated to helping you create the kitchen of your dreams; we invite you to visit our showroom and allow our experts and creative consultants to help you choose the perfect surface for your home. As unique as the individual, we treat every project with the utmost care, paying special attention to each client’s specific needs, budget, lifestyle, and style preferences. Call IRG at (415) 657-0280 or visit us at a showroom convenient to you in Brisbane, Dublin, or Sacramento.
Synonymous with the serenity of nature, blue natural stones are a great way to invite more peace and stillness into your home design. If you’re thinking of adding the calming color of blue into your space, you’re not alone. Designers have turned to blue textiles and accents for their many qualities, but blue is finding its way to center stage in cabinetry and surfaces, too. It can be hard to parse through stunning blue surface options to find the right one that’ll elevate your decor scheme, but let’s dive into the case for incorporating blue stone into your space.
Azul Do Mar Quartzite mirrors the calming, wave-like patterns of the ocean in this waterfront kitchen.
1. Blue Stone Brings Nature’s Serenity Indoors
For those typically averse to color, the color blue is historically associated with the waters of the oceans, evoking a soothing calm that comes naturally with its use in home decor. It can provide a pleasant sensation of freshness, cleanliness, and relaxation, so it has been a perfect choice for coastal bedrooms or powder bathrooms for decades. But today’s on-trend designers are installing blue surfaces in any room of the house.
Azul Do Mar is a peacefully-hued quartzite with wave patterns that bring quiet serenity indoors. Quarried in Brazil, this exclusive stone is a brilliant choice for those who love uniqueness, sophistication, and the sea. It’s not just the blue colorations and creamy white waves that make Azul Do Mar a designer’s choice. Homeowners will appreciate the benefits of choosing quartzite: beautiful, durable, stain-resistant, and low maintenance.
2. The Uniqueness of Blue Stone Elevates Traditional Spaces
Not normally used as a backdrop for food, blue stone countertops, islands, and back-and-counter splashes have now taken their well-deserved place in the kitchen. As eating areas have evolved into living-working-entertaining spaces as well as traditional cooking spaces, homeowners are enjoying the comforts of designing a kitchen that incorporates lifelike elements like paintings, books, and lamps. Likewise, color choices have evolved to bring a sense of “home” into all areas of the house.
Ijen Blue is an affordable blue quartzite that best serves as a reliable and stain-forgiving countertop option for spill-proof, high-use areas. With warm tones woven throughout the stone’s rare mix of white and purple-hued angular veins, Ijen Blue can be used to infuse that sense of eclectic tranquility into a home, especially when featured as the main focal point on kitchen islands and in primary bathrooms.
Beverly Blue Quartzite used by Jennifer Robin Interiors | Photography: Paul Dyer
3. Soft Blues Can Balance Out Bold Designs
Hybrid design styles are proving just how popular balancing out striking architecture, cabinetry, and flooring with gentle surfaces and accessories can be. The soft and soothing nature of earth’s highly sought-after blue tones can balance out decor and design schemes featuring prominent lines, gritty textures, and masculine hardware. For example, light blues are often recommended for those who want to experiment with color but want something that’s easy on the eyes and as consoling as ocean waves. And so it goes: sometimes all it takes is a touch of blue to bring balance and harmony into your home.
IRG’s Macauba Fantasy is a stunning gray-blue quartzite with hints of deep tiffany blue veining. Mimicking the whispy and relaxed movement of the earth’s skies, this stone can help ground gold, black, rust, and navy accents with its cloud-like, airy qualities. Macauba Fantasy and Beverly Blue Quartzite are just a couple of family-friendly stone options for those wanting to take the edge off of opulent entertainment spaces, or those wanting to identify their own version of organic luxury with blue-laced peninsulas and spa-like bathtubs.
Azul Bahia Granite adds playfulness and movement to break up the otherwise clean lines of this modern kitchen.
4. A Pop of Blue Can Anchor a Space
Just like blue stone surfaces can nurture a space, they can also be used to anchor forward designs. Beautiful blue stones are a luxurious choice with cherry woods or dark walnuts. Clean white walls and cabinets matched with blue granite surfaces make for a happy, welcoming, youthful space. Yellow and blue combinations can evoke everything from country cheery to elegant traditional designs. One thing is for sure: rich-toned blue surfaces can elevate bold designs when paired nicely with other colors—whether contrasting, complimentary, or within the same family.
Azul Bahia Granite is a vibrant blue stone that adds playfulness and movement to any design it’s privy to. Along with the exotic blue quartzite Azul Macauba, Azul Bahia Granite lends a feeling of opulence and exclusivity with its lake-like landscape and nature-driven silhouette that’s reminiscent of mountainous aesthetics.
“SEA” WHAT WE MEAN
Nothing takes the place of seeing, touching, and choosing the surface of stone in person. That’s why we invite you to browse the immense selection of IRG slabs online and then contact us to visit one of our showrooms: Brisbane, Dublin, and Sacramento. Our staff has the experience, training—and in-stock inventory– to give you all the guidance you need to make a blue-tiful decision!
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The IRG Blog is your resource for stone product information, ideas and inspiration. Use our informational articles, project features, and product spotlights to help create your vision, then come into one of our showrooms to bring your ideas to life!
