Similarities Between Quartz and Quartzite

Installing cabinets and countertops is an important aspect of a home improvement project, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom. And the first step in the process is choosing the right material for the project. Common materials for cabinets are wood, laminate, and metal. When it comes to countertops, the two most common options are quartz and quartzite, among others. While quartz is an engineered product, quartzite is a natural stone. While quartz and quartzite both are completely different stones, there are some similarities between the two. Let’s dive in to know more.

What is quartz?

Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found on the earth’s crust. It is composed of silicone and oxygen atoms, with a chemical composition of SiO2. The atoms are linked in a continuous framework of SiO4 silicon-oxygen tetrahedra, with each oxygen being shared between two tetrahedral. Quartz is a hard, crystalline rock that is abundant in earth in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary forms. There are several different varieties of quartz, many of which are classified as gemstones. For a long time, quartz in its several forms has been used in the making of jewelry and hard stone carvings. If you look at a quartz crystal, you will see that it is made of the same stuff all the way through.

What is quartzite?

Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that predominantly contains quartz. It is a sedimentary rock made from quartz sandstone. It is formed when sandstone is exposed to extreme heat and pressure caused by tectonic plate compression in the earth’s crust. Quartzite is a firm, compact rock composed of grains of quartz sand cemented by a layer deposit of quartz. It is typically white to pale gray in color, but comes in other colors too, including green, blue, yellow, and pink. Although pure quartzite is entirely composed of silicon dioxide, iron oxide and trace minerals are commonly present. Quartzite may also contain fossils. Quartzite is commonly used in the making of roofing tiles, stairs and flooring.

Similarities between quartz and quartzite

1. Composition – While both quartz and quartzite are entirely different stones, they are primarily composed of quartz. While quartz is an engineered product, quartzite is a natural stone made from quartz sandstone. Because of the high concentration of quartz present in both the materials, they share similar physical and chemical properties.
2. Characteristics and Appearance – Both the materials can be found in a variety of colors, which gives them a similar appearance. Because of high concentration of quartz, they have a similar texture and grain pattern. Both can be found in white, gray and pink colors. Additionally, both the materials can be polished to a high shine, which further enhances their visual appeal.
3. Hardness – Both are extremely hard and durable stones with at least a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which is a mineral’s resistance to scratching. In terms of durability, both are extremely durable and are able to withstand greater degrees of wear and tear. This makes them ideal for use in a variety of applications, including countertops, flooring, tiles, and decorative stone.
4. Heat and Pressure Resistance – Quartzite and quartz are both extremely heat and pressure resistant. Quartz can withstand temperatures of up to 573°C, while quartzite can withstand temperatures of up to 1470°C. Quartzite, however, is more heat resistant, which makes it a primary choice for kitchen countertops. Furthermore, quartzite is less dense than quartz, making it more susceptible to staining.

Summary

While quartz and quartzite are two entirely different stones, they share some similar characteristics. For example, quartz and quartzite are both extremely heat and pressure resistant, which makes them a primary choice of material for kitchen countertops. Also, both are primarily composed of quartz that explains the similar texture and gain pattern. They are also used in a wide range of applications, countertops, flooring, tiles, and decorative stone.

FAQs

Is quartz and quartzite same?

No, they are not the same. While quartz is an engineered product, quartzite is a natural stone that forms from the recrystallization of quartz sandstone.

How are marble and quartz alike and how are they different? 

Quartz and marble are two of the most popular choices of material for countertops and both have the durability of quartz. However, marble is a metamorphic rock made of limestone, whereas quartz is a mineral made up of silicon and oxygen atoms. Quartz is an engineered stone whereas marble is a natural stone.

What is the visual difference between quartz and quartzite?

Both quartz and quartzite are predominantly composed of quartz. This explains the more organic and natural appearance of quartzite with visible grain patterns. Quartz, on the other hand, has a more consistent appearance and if you look at it, you’ll see that it is made of the same stuff all the way through. 

What are the similarities between granite and quartz?

Both granite and quartz are extremely hard and durable, which make them a great choice for kitchen countertops. Both are heat and stain resistant and can able to withstand extreme wear and tear.

What stone is similar to quartz?

Calcite looks quite similar to quartz because it is translucent. Also, engineered quartz is often confused with quartz. Engineered quartz, like the name suggests, is a man-made material composed of quartz particles mixed with resin and other materials.

What are the similarities and differences between marble and granite?

Marble and granite both are natural stones and popular choice of materials for kitchen countertops. They also come in a wide range of colors and patterns. However, Marble is softer than granite and more prone to scratching and staining. Granite is more durable and able to withstand extreme wear and tear.

What are the similarities between marble and quartzite?

Both marble and quartzite are metamorphic rocks that come in a variety of colors and patterns. Although different in their composition and properties, both are popular choice of materials for kitchen countertops.

What is the comparison between marble, granite and quartz?

Quartz is a mineral, while marble and granite are rocks. Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found on the earth’s crust and is made of silicone and oxygen. Granite is composed of several minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and plagioclase. Marble is composed of calcium and magnesium carbonate.

How can you easily distinguish between quartz and marble?

One of the many ways is to scratch the stone’s surface with a knife or a sharp object. Marble being softer than quartz will scratch more easily. Also, marble looks more natural and organic.