Quartz and quartzite may sound similar, right? But, indeed, they're not the same. Let us explain the difference in detail.
Quartzite is totally natural. It's mostly quartz stone (from 90 to 99%), bound by silica. Perfect for the eco-friendly crowd. Quartz, though, is man-made. About 90 to 94% ground quartz stone, the rest is resins and pigments.
Color-wise, quartz wins in variety. From orange to deep pink, it's got it all. Patterns too. Veined, flecked, you name it. Quartzite appeals to those who love natural stone. Whites, grays, maybe some pink or red from iron oxide. Each slab is unique.
Quartz is non-porous. It means stains and water are not a problem. On the other hand, quartzite needs a little care in this regard. It's porous. Sealing is a must, yearly.
What about scratch resistance? Quartzite edges out. It's tougher on the Moh's Scale. Quartz is close but watch out with acidic foods.
Now, let's talk about heat. Quartzite can take the heat. Hot pans are no issue. Quartz is not really heat-resistant. Heat can damage it. So don't put hot utensils on it.
DIY-ers, think twice. Both quartz and quartzite are heavy. Pros are your best bet for installation.
That's a quick comparison of quartz and quartzite. Each has its pros and cons. Thus, choose what works best for you.