Discover what quartz really is, its main advantages and limitations, and why it has become one of the most popular choices for homeowners and designers looking for durability, style, and low maintenance.
If you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom, countertops are one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Among the many options, quartz stands out for combining beauty, strength, and practicality.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What quartz is made of
- How quartz countertops are manufactured
- The pros and cons of quartz surfaces
- The differences between quartz and quartzite
- When quartz is the best choice for your project
What Is Quartz Made Of?
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, made of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). In its natural form, quartz is present in many types of rock.
However, quartz countertops are not slabs cut from quarries. They are engineered surfaces, produced by combining crushed quartz crystals with resins, pigments, and other materials. The result is a highly controlled and reliable product — modern, resistant, and available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
How Quartz Countertops Are Manufactured
The process of making quartz countertops involves:
- Crushing natural quartz crystals
- Mixing them with resins and pigments
- Compressing and curing the mixture under high heat
This ensures a surface that offers:
- Non-porosity – resists stains, liquids, and bacteria
- Consistent color and pattern – ideal for uniform projects
- Low maintenance – no sealing or constant upkeep needed
- High durability – suitable for both residential and commercial use
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Like any material, quartz has its strengths and some points to keep in mind before choosing it for your project.
Pros
- Wide color range and consistent look
- Excellent stain resistance
- Low-maintenance (no sealing required)
- Durable and long-lasting in everyday use
- Wide variety of colors to match any design style
Cons (Points to Consider)
Not 100% natural (engineered product)
Can discolor if exposed to strong sunlight outdoors
Not as heat-resistant as quartzite or granite — avoid placing hot pans directly
|
Feature
|
Quartz (Engineered)
|
Natural Stone
|
|---|---|---|
|
Origin
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Factory-made
|
Quarried slabs
|
|
Appearance
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Uniform, wide range of colors
|
Natural look with veining
|
|
Maintenance
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Easy, no sealing required
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Requires sealing
|
|
Stain resistance
|
High
|
Moderate to high
|
|
Heat resistance
|
Good (avoid direct hot pans)
|
Excellent, withstands high heat
|
Choose Quartz for a sleek, modern style, easy maintenance, and a clean, consistent look.
Choose Natural Stone for authentic character, one-of-a-kind veining, and timeless beauty—perfect if you’re comfortable with a little extra care.
FAQ about Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces, made by combining natural quartz crystals with resins and pigments.
No — quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require sealing, unlike granite or marble.
Quartz is a premium surface, often priced higher than laminate but comparable to granite, depending on the style and brand.
Best Uses for Quartz
Quartz is dependable, durable, and low-maintenance — the smart choice for busy kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial projects. Natural Stone, on the other hand, offers unmatched authenticity and one-of-a-kind beauty for those who appreciate timeless character and don’t mind a little extra care.
At Bolder Image Stone, we’ve helped thousands of Phoenix homeowners, designers, and contractors bring their vision to life with both quartz and natural stone. With free delivery, bilingual support, and over 1,000 five-star reviews, you’ll find not just quality stone, but the confidence to choose what best fits your lifestyle and design.
✨ Whether you’re drawn to the sleek consistency of quartz or the unique elegance of natural stone, the choice is yours — guided by your needs, your preferences, and your style.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom? Contact Us Today
