New Year, New Colors at Artistic Stone!

The new year is off to a great start at Artistic Stone—especially because we have several beautiful new colors of quartzite and quartz available:

• White Macaubas Quartzite
• White Lux Quartzite
• Nuage Quarzite
• Eternal Gold Quartz

Comparing Quartzite and Quartz

Due to the similar names, it’s easy to confuse quartzite and quartz or to think that they’re the same thing. However, these are two very distinct materials. Some of the main differences between the two include:

• Origin: Quartzite is a natural stone formed from sandstone that was subjected to high heat and pressure. In contrast, quartz is an engineered stone made from a mixture of natural quartz and high-quality resin. 
• Hardness: Although both materials are very strong, Quartzite is harder and more durable than quartz, particularly when it comes to damage like scratches, chips, or cracks. This makes quartzite an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. 
• Appearance: Each piece of quartzite is unique, featuring natural veining and color variations. Since quartz is an engineered stone, it can range from solid colors to patterns that mimic natural stone. 
• Maintenance: Since it needs to be sealed periodically, quartzite requires more maintenance than quartz; it’s also more prone to staining and etching. Quartz is more stain-resistant and doesn’t require sealing.
• Cost: Quartz is generally less expensive than quartzite, but this can vary depending on the specific type of stone and the materials needed for your project.

As you can see, each material has unique benefits and drawbacks, depending on personal preference, where you plan to use them, maintenance needs, and budget. We invite you to stop into one of our showrooms to see these stunning materials in person! Our experienced team would be happy to help you find the perfect countertops for your home! Visit us today in San Leandro or Mountain View.