Quartzite Countertops With a Marble Look and Real Strength
Affordable Stoneworks fabricates and installs quartzite countertops across Southern California. Quartzite gives you the soft look of marble, yet it is far harder. In addition, we cut every slab in our own shop.
- You pick the exact slab
- Sealed at install
- Free in-home estimate
- Tell us about your project online or by phone.
- We measure on-site and help you pick your slab.
- You get a written, itemized quote. No pressure.
- Since 2001Family-owned stone shop
- In-house fabricationOur shop, our crew
- You pick the slabSee the real stone first
- Free estimateWritten, itemized quote
Quartzite countertops, explained
Quartzite starts as sandstone. Then heat and pressure fuse the quartz grains into very hard rock. As a result, it is one of the toughest countertop stones.
At the same time, quartzite often shows soft white and gray veins. So it looks a lot like marble. However, it is much harder and better with heat.
- Natural stone, every slab unique
- About 7 on the Mohs hardness scale
- Marble-like veining
- Handles heat well
Quartzite countertops vs marble, granite and quartz
Here is a quick, honest side-by-side.
| Feature | Quartzite | Marble | Granite | Quartz |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Natural | Natural | Natural | Engineered |
| Hardness | Very high | Softer | High | High |
| Sealing | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Heat | Very good | Good | Very good | Use a trivet |
| Acid etching | Low | Yes | Low | Low |
Best uses for quartzite countertops
Quartzite works almost anywhere. For example, it shines on kitchen islands, perimeters and full backsplashes. It also suits bathrooms and bars.
Because it is natural and tough, quartzite is also a good pick for busy homes. Likewise, it suits commercial spaces that want a high-end look. See our kitchen countertops and commercial countertops pages.
How to care for quartzite countertops
Quartzite care is easy. Daily, wipe it with warm water and mild soap. Then dry with a soft cloth.
In addition, reseal it from time to time. Some quartzites are denser than others, so we will tell you what to expect for your slab. For general stone care tips, see the Natural Stone Institute.
Beware of mislabeled slabs
Some soft marbles are sold as quartzite. That is why we help you check the slab. For instance, real quartzite will scratch glass. So you know what you are buying before we cut.
Compare other countertop stones
Quartzite countertops across Southern California
We fabricate and install quartzite in Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Riverside County, the Temecula Valley and San Diego.
Quartzite countertops: common questions
Is quartzite the same as quartz?
No. Quartzite is a natural stone. Quartz is engineered from ground quartz and resin. The names are similar, but they are different materials.
Do quartzite countertops need sealing?
Yes. Quartzite is natural, so we seal it at install. After that, reseal it from time to time.
Is quartzite harder than marble?
Yes, much harder. Quartzite is about 7 on the Mohs scale, while marble is about 3 to 4. So it resists scratches far better.
Can quartzite take heat?
Quartzite handles heat well. Even so, use a trivet for very hot pans to protect the sealer and seams.
Why does quartzite cost more?
Quartzite is very hard, so it takes more time and tooling to cut and polish. The slab itself can also be pricier. Your written quote shows each line.
Thinking about quartzite?
Get a free in-home measure and a written, itemized quote. Then pick the exact slab you love.
Want to compare first? Read our FAQ, check the pricing guide or browse past projects.