Quartzite Countertops

Kitchen Counters: Quartzite Offers Strength and Beauty

Eye-catching patterns and a natural pedigree make durable quartzite a popular alternative to granite and marble

When choosing a kitchen countertop material, many homeowners who might have gone with granite or marble are giving quartzite a second look. Before you bring this material into your kitchen, take the time to learn the pros, cons and special considerations to see if it’s right for you.
 

The basics: Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed from sandstone. The transformation happens when sandstone is heated within the earth’s crust and shifting tectonic plates supply pressure. The resulting stone has pleasing streaks, rich colors and eye-catching patterns. Colors range from white to black, with shades of blue, green, yellow and brown. 

Popular quartzite varieties include:

  • White Macaubas (has an elegant translucent gray or white background with darker gray or blue veining)

  • Mont Blanc (has a similar look to marble, with gold, green and gray veining)

  • Taj Mahal (a natural-toned stone often described as having a translucent quality)

    And don’t confuse quartzite with quartz (also known as quartz composite), a manufactured product crafted from resin and quartz chips tinted with various colors.