Quartzite
Definition: Quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz. It forms when a quartz-rich sandstone is altered by the heat, pressure, and chemical activity of metamorphism.
Metamorphic rocks are formed when an existing rock (in this case, sandstone) is transformed physically or chemically at elevated temperature and/or heat pressure, without actually melting. This process happens typically near a magma chamber and it takes millions of years. Metamorphism recrystallizes the sand grains and the silica cement that binds them together. The result is a network of interlocking quartz grains of incredible strength.
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Fun fact about quartzite: Quartzite is found in the Morenci Copper Mine in Arizona. The town of Quartzsite in western Arizona derives its name from the quartzites in the nearby mountains in both Arizona and Southeastern California.
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Quartzite offers many advantages: Harder than quartz or granite, heat resistant, scratch resistant, easy to clean, gorgeous patterns. Although quartzite is a natural stone, it is not as porous as other types of natural stones. A sealer is still recommended but the maintenance is very minimal. Because quartzite is formed the same way as marble, this amazing natural stone offers incredible natural subtle patterns. With quartzite, customers get the look of a marble stone and the performance and durability of a quartzite.
Quartzite is the hardest natural stone mined for countertops, scoring a whopping 7 out of 10 in the Mohs Hardness Scale. Granite scores 6 to 6.5, while marble scores 3 to 4. The hardest rocks are diamonds scoring 10.
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Quartzite is often confused with Quartz. Quartz aka the man-made stone is composed of natural mineral quartz with resins and pigments put together in a mold. Quartzite is a sandstone rich in quartz mineral formed through metamorphism millions of years ago.
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Please see the top colors our customers select below. Do not hesitate to reach out as we offer many more options. Color and pattern vary as no two slabs are exactly the same. Please keep that in mind when viewing the examples on our website.
