Choosing a stone surface for your home in Philadelphia? Two premium options are quartz and quartzite. Though they sound similar, these materials have key differences — in performance, appearance, and maintenance — that could impact your decision.
Whether you’re updating a kitchen in South Philly or remodeling a Main Line master bath, here’s how quartz and quartzite stack up.
🪨 What’s the Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite?
- Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed natural quartz mixed with resins and pigments. It’s manufactured for consistency, strength, and color control.
- Quartzite is a completely natural stone — formed when sandstone is fused with quartz crystals under intense heat and pressure. Every slab is unique, with natural veining and color shifts.
Philly Takeaway: Want a uniform look in your new-build condo? Quartz might be best. Looking for one-of-a-kind beauty in your Fairmount brownstone? Quartzite delivers.
🎨 Appearance & Style
- Quartz comes in a wide range of styles — from solid tones to marble-look designs — and offers consistent patterns across multiple slabs.
- Quartzite features more organic, high-variation patterns. Popular colors include whites, grays, golds, and greens with stunning veining.
Philly Takeaway: Quartz pairs perfectly with modern homes and minimalist palettes. Quartzite is a show-stopper for statement islands or luxury bath surrounds.
💪 Durability & Maintenance
- Quartz is non-porous, stain-resistant, and doesn’t need sealing. It’s super easy to maintain with just soap and water.
- Quartzite is harder than granite but porous like marble — so it needs sealing to protect against stains and etching.
Philly Takeaway: Busy households in University City love quartz for its ease. But if you’re willing to care for a natural surface, quartzite’s elegance pays off.
🔥 Heat & Scratch Resistance
- Quartz is scratch-resistant but not heat-proof — placing hot pots directly on the surface can cause damage.
- Quartzite is highly heat- and scratch-resistant — making it a great option for serious cooks and entertainers.
Philly Takeaway: If you love to cook with cast iron or use your counters hard, quartzite gives you a performance edge.
💵 Price & Value
- Quartz is generally more affordable than quartzite and easier to fabricate, which can reduce install costs.
- Quartzite tends to be more expensive per square foot due to its natural formation and extra fabrication requirements.
Philly Takeaway: Quartz fits well in investment properties or budget-conscious renovations. Quartzite adds value to custom homes or luxury remodels.
🏡 Final Verdict: Quartz or Quartzite?
At Stone Park USA, we work with homeowners, contractors, and designers across the Philadelphia region to help them choose the right stone. Whether you prioritize beauty, durability, or low maintenance — we’ll help you find the perfect slab.
Visit our local showroom to see our full collection of quartz and quartzite — or contact us for a personal consultation.
🧱 Still Deciding?
Check out more helpful comparisons like Granite vs Marble for Philly Homes or stop by to browse slabs in person.
👉 Explore StoneParkUSA.com — Philadelphia’s trusted source for natural and engineered stone.
