Indian quartzite slabs are the latest natural stone option for kitchen countertops. Granite and marble have always been the conventional choice but this beautiful stone offers multiple benefits for your home. Find out why you choose Indian quartzite slabs for your kitchen below:
1. Durability
When comparing granite versus quartzite, both stones are quite hard yet beautiful. In fact, amongst all the existing natural stones, these two are the most similar. Both form within the deep layers of the earth’s crust under intense pressure and heat. Rated at 7 on Mohs Hardness Scale, quartzite is much harder than granite.
1. Durability
When comparing granite versus quartzite, both stones are quite hard yet beautiful. In fact, amongst all the existing natural stones, these two are the most similar. Both form within the deep layers of the earth’s crust under intense pressure and heat. Rated at 7 on Mohs Hardness Scale, quartzite is much harder than granite.
What makes quartzite standout is that it has the appearance of marble. Granite has dark flecks or spots in its appearance whereas quartzite does not. In addition, quartzite is denser and far less porous compared to granite. Quartzite requires almost no sealing.
2. Appearance of Marble
White quartzite has a similar appearance to marble but it won’t etch as easily. If you enjoy the look of marble but don’t have the budget for it, quartzite seems like the better alternative. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, marble is only 4. Quartzite on the other hand is even harder than glass.
If you rub a piece of glass on a quartzite surface, you will notice scratches on the glass. Similarly, if you place a cut lemon overnight on a marble countertop, you’ll notice discoloration the next morning. This won’t occur with a quartzite slab.
3. Quartz vs. Quartzite: which is a better option?
Although the names sound the same, quartz and quartzite are two different materials. Quartzite is a metamorphic stone. It forms naturally within the deep core of the earth when heat and compression are applied to sand. Quartz on the other hand is manufactured by combining polymers, resin and bits of ground quartz. This is a very strong, manmade material.
Since quartz is manufactured, it’s more affordable than Indian Quartzite Slabs. However it does have a few drawbacks. Quartz is not scratch or heat resistant as quartzite. Since it’s more flexible, quartz is more prone to chipping. Considering all the cutting, chopping and heat exposure that a kitchen countertop gets, quartzite is a far better option.
4. Affordable and Cheaper
When compared to plastic laminate or wood countertops, quartzite will seem more expensive. However, it’s far more affordable than marble. Quartzite that has a similar appearance to marble, i.e. white quartzite will fetch a higher price than regular quartzite. Granite and quartzite are more or less the same but the latter offers more durability. The thickness and design of your quartzite slab will also increase the cost.
The demand for Indian quartzite slabs is increasing. As production continues to increase, you can expect the cost of this beautiful stone to plummet even further. To shop for beautiful Indian quartzite slabs, visit Elegant Granites.