1. Why choose quartzite slabs?
Quartzite is an increasing popular choice among homeowners and interior designers due to its sophisticated look, natural strength and low maintenance. It’s commonly found in leathered, hone and polished finish, which makes it perfect for both contemporary luxury spaces and rustic kitchens and bathrooms. Quartzite’s crystalline sparkle transforms applications, such as kitchen countertops, work surfaces, tables and feature walls into functional and classy showpieces.
Featured below is Antolini’s Cielo quartzite, highlighted on the countertops and kitchen island of this stunning kitchen.
2. Is quartzite the same as quartz?
Despite the similarity in names, the two products are quite different.
The mineral quartz occurs naturally; however, when applied to surface slabs, the mineral is fused with resins, polymers, and pigments, making it a man-made, engineered material.
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that starts out as sandstone and evolves over time under intense heat and pressure. It is quarried, and cut into slabs to be used for applications like countertops, flooring, wall coverings, vanity tops and stair steps.
3. What are the pros and cons of quartzite?
PROS
Resilience—Quartzite slabs are the ideal option for consumers who desire the look of marble countertops but require something sturdier. At a 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, quartzite is actually harder than granite. Its incredible durability and strength makes it an ideal solution for applications which require stronger materials
Easy maintenance—Quartzite is resistant to etching and scratching, stands up to heat, and is easy to keep clean and sanitized. No need to purchase expensive cleaners; a simple mixture of soap and warm water will keep the surface looking fantastic.
Highly resistant to UV rays—which helps prevent the surface from fading. Quartzite is a great option for outdoor applications or in a room that receives direct, natural light.
CONS
While strong and durable, quartzite is not indestructible—Sealing is recommended and should be carried out by the installer when the quartzite is first installed, and should be re-applied periodically after that, approximately once per year (home application products are available for this). For quartzite countertops, we recommend using cutting boards when handling sharp objects and pot holders and trivets for hot pots and pans. As with all natural-stone surfaces, spills should be wiped up as soon as possible
4. What quartzite color choices are available?
Because Quartzite is a natural stone, it generally forms in earth-toned hues of white or gray with hints of brown or black. With the current trend toward lighter surfaces, quartzite is a popular choice because its neutral colors compliment any design. Occasionally you can find a colored natural quartzite, such as blue, green, pink or red due to impurities that impacted the color. The color variation depends on several factors such as the amount of iron oxide present, the region the stone comes from and the age of the stone. Quartzite is naturally formed so no two slabs are exactly the same. The veining in the stone varies from slab to slab which provides your project with that luxurious, one-of-a-kind look.
5. Are all the stones labelled as quartzite a true quartzite?
Quartzite is a term that is used quite loosely within the stone industry. It is oftentimes used to describe stones more closely related to dolomites and marbles. We recommend checking with your fabricator to find out if your selected stone is a true quartzite.
Read more: A Living Kitchen with Antolini Natural Stone
Visit our showroom to view our collection of quartzite slabs, hand-picked from around the world. Our expert staff is happy to assist you in selecting the perfect slab. Schedule an appointment on our website or call us at (818) 308-6292.
Can please provide the paint color in the Cielo kitchen. We have the same color cabinets and floor and are planning to change our counter tops from a speckled granite to Cielo. We were also considering a Taj Mahal.
Thank you.
Robert,
Do you have any final pictures from your job? My wife and I are considering both Taj, and Cielo. Would love to see how your project turned out!
Andy
Hi guys,
Robert, we would also love to see your finished product if you can share and let us know if we can post on the blog or social media! Thanks!
Can you please provide the island cabinet paint color. Just installed Celio Quartzite and would like that same color
It’s great how you elaborated on the resilience of quartzite countertops as one of their biggest advantages. Cooking at home more often has shown me just how flimsy our current kitchen is and I can’t see us using those materials for an extended period of time without needing a replacement soon. With that in mind, I’ll look for any place that offers quartzite countertop installation and have them stop by our house right away.