When it comes to picking a workspace for your kitchen or bathroom, there are countless options for homeowners to choose from. Whether you prefer dark or light hues, or synthetic or natural materials, quartzite and quartz countertops continue to rival each other in popularity. If you’re unsure how these two similarly named materials differ, read the following comparison.

Quartzite Countertops

This genuine natural resource is essentially a metamorphic rock, which forms when sandstone meets high heat and intense pressure. Once cut into rectangular slabs, quartzite can be made into countertops that are polished and sealed. This material ranges in color from white to gray, but it may also feature pink, red, yellow, orange, blue, and green accents due to mixed-in trace minerals.

Of the two materials, quartzite is harder and less vulnerable to heat damage. However, because it’s a natural stone, it requires more maintenance to stay in shape. Quartzite countertops should be sealed annually to prevent the absorption of liquid and subsequent stains.

Quartz Countertops

This man-made material is constructed from loose quartz, silicon dioxide, pigment, and a binding resin. Because it isn’t mined straight from a quarry and turned into countertops, you can order quartz in a wide variety of hues. However, the way these pigments are mixed in creates the appearance of natural stone.

While quartz countertops don’t need to be sealed every year, it’s important to keep hot items—like pots and pans—off the synthetic surfaces. Since the resin inside is technically plastic, it can melt. On the other hand, quartz is less vulnerable to dents and chips than natural quartzite.

If you believe quartzite or quartz countertops are right for your home, get in touch with Stone World at Red Bank. Based in New Jersey, this company has over a decade of experience as a wholesaler and manufacturer, and they can outfit your kitchen or bathroom with counters in over 300 colors. For more information on their varied inventory, visit the website, and call (732) 383-5110 to request an estimate. You can also visit their showroom in Middletown.