Quartzite vs Marble

Featured Image: Calacatta Polished Quartzite Kitchen Island Countertop from Arizona Tile

Quartzite vs Marble

When you see a stunning white stone countertop with subtle gray veining, you may assume that you’re looking at marble. This is a very reasonable assumption, but you actually may be looking at quartzite instead. Quartzite is often confused with marble due to its similar appearance, which may make you wonder what the difference is between these two beautiful natural stones.

Both quartzite and marble are solid choices for your home renovation, but they each come with unique styles, strengths, uses, and maintenance requirements. By understanding the differences between quartzite vs. marble, you can decide which natural stone is right for you.

Quartzite

Quartzite, not to be confused with quartz, is a natural stone. When extreme heat and pressure are naturally applied to sandstone within the earth, this breathtaking stone is formed. Quartzite is typically thought of as the more durable alternative to marble.

Appearance

Each quartzite slab is unique, having been formed by nature over many, many years. It will also vary in appearance from piece to piece to and lot to lot, depending of the location and timeframe from which it was mined. The high percentage of quartz minerals within quartzite give it a consistent high gloss level with few pits on its surface. It generally has either subtle or dramatic veining. can be found in a wide range of colors including pinks, blues, golds, whites, beiges, and blacks.

Durability

Quartzite is composed almost entirely out of quartz, making it one of the hardest surfaces available.

In general, quartzite is not as sensitive as marble, but it is always good to use best practices that you would use for any natural stone. Clean spills up immediately to avoid staining, as it is possible to experience acid burns from acid liquids or citrus juices. Although quartzite is more heat resistant than any other countertop surface, never place hot items directly on the surface – simply use a hot pad or trivet.

Uses

In both residential and commercial projects, quartzite is an eye-catching stone that elevates any space. It is often used for countertops, floors, interior walls fireplaces, and showers.

Image: Ijen Blue Quartzite Kitchen Countertop from Arizona Tile

Quartzite is available in so many beautiful colors and patterns, it can fit into many design aesthetics. For example, the mellow Ijen Blue quartzite slab pairs well with glossy textures pop of color and brushed metal fixtures.

Care and Maintenance

Quartzite is simple to care for and maintain when properly sealed. This is recommended soon after installation. Keep your natural stone looking its best by wiping it prior to cleaning it with a pH-neutral cleaner or warm water. Do not use scouring powders or creams, as these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Marble

From ancient Roman columns to present-day luxury homes, marble has made a name for itself as an opulent design feature. This natural stone does require maintenance, but its unrivaled appearance still makes it a popular choice for many room renovations.

Image: Fantasy Brown Satin Marble Bathroom Floor from Arizona Tile

Appearance

Marble is known for its white color tones and sensational vein patterns. Every piece of marble is one-of-a-kind, with unique swirls and hues. Some are classic white, while others are blue, gold, black, gray, or brown, like the remarkable Fantasy Brown marble.

Durability

Marble is more porous than other stones, so it is prone to staining and scratching. However, it is very hard and durable and will last a long time with the proper care and maintenance. It is recommended that marble be sealed when installed and re-sealed every 6 months. Be cautious of acid-based foods like citrus or tomatoes, as they can cause etching. Cleaning up spills quickly and using coasters and mats will help minimize “beauty marks” caused by usage. Although marble is incredibly heat resistant, the best practice with any stone surface is to always place hot items on a hot pad or trivet.

Image: Sky Blue Honed 12” X 24” Bathroom Wall Tile and CS-Sky Blue Honed Hex 4 Inch Mesh Tile from Arizona Tile

Uses

Marble adds fantasy and drama to every space it’s in – like this beautiful Sky Blue tile. This elegant material is often used for interior floors, walls, and countertops. Its heat resistance makes it a great choice for fireplace surrounds. Marble is also a stunning choice for bathrooms.

Care and Maintenance

To care for your marble, regularly wipe gently with a neutral cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid acidic and scouring cleaners. Do not cut or put your hot pans directly on marble countertops. For large marble surfaces, like commercial flooring, consider working with a licensed maintenance company that knows how to properly care for this temperamental material.

Quartzite vs. Marble: Which Is Right for You?

When deciding which is right for you between two elegant natural stones, don’t worry—there’s no wrong answer. Both marble and quartzite work in many designs, but knowing the differences can help you choose which fits your lifestyle the best. Here’s how they compare in each category.

Appearance: Both marble and quartzite are stunning choices and come in a variety of colors and patterns. It really just depends on your design goals and what speaks to you.

Durability: Quartzite is more heat resistant than any other countertop surface and is one of the hardest surfaces available because it is composed almost entirely out of quartz. However, marble is more durable than some people give it credit for. It just requires more attention and care.

Uses: Quartzite and marble have similar uses, like countertops, bathrooms, and floors, so this category depends on what you will be using it for and what works best for your needs.

Care and Maintenance: Quartzite wins this category because it requires less maintenance and vigilance. However, with a regular routine, the upkeep with marble is not at all a daunting as it may seem.

Whichever you choose in the marble vs. quartzite debate, know that you’re picking an elegant natural stone that will elevate the style of any room you put it in.

The experienced team at Arizona Tile is here to make your renovation a success. To browse extensive collections of both quartzite and marble with our Just Image Visualizer, check out one of our locations or explore the online Slab Yard. If you have any questions about quartzite or marble, contact us for expert help.