Natural stone
Quartzite: very hard, durable natural stone
A dense metamorphic stone for demanding surfaces, facades and flooring.
Material overview
About Quartzite
Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed when quartz-rich sandstone is fused by heat and pressure. The result is an extremely hard, dense stone with a sparkling, crystalline look.
Quartzite offers the visual softness of some marbles with far greater hardness, which is why it is increasingly specified for kitchens, floors and exteriors.
Key characteristics
What defines this material.
Extremely hard
Resists scratching and wear.
Low porosity
Typically absorbs very little water.
Crystalline sparkle
Subtle shimmer from quartz grains.
Weather resistant
Suited to demanding outdoor conditions.
Common applications
Where quartzite is typically used.
Countertops
A hard-wearing option for busy kitchens.
Flooring
High-traffic residential and commercial floors.
Facades and cladding
Exterior and interior walls.
Paving
Patios, steps and pool surrounds.
Public spaces
Areas needing a tough surface.
Feature walls
Textured or polished accents.
Common finishes
Finish changes appearance, grip and maintenance.
Polished
Glossy and colour-rich.
Honed
Matte, softer appearance.
Flamed
Textured, slip-resistant surface.
Natural split
Rough cleaved face for cladding.
Technical information
Typical ranges for this stone family.
| Rock type | Metamorphic (quartz-rich) |
|---|---|
| Density | About 2.6 to 2.7 g/cm³ |
| Water absorption | Typically below 0.5% |
| Compressive strength | Typically 150 to 300 MPa |
| Hardness | About 7 on the Mohs scale |
Values are typical for the material family and vary by deposit and block. They are not a guarantee for any specific batch. Request test reports for your project where they are needed.
Project suitability considerations
- Fabrication: because it is so hard, cutting and polishing need diamond tooling and experienced fabricators.
- Naming: trade names vary. Confirm the true stone type, as some marketed quartzites behave differently.
- Variation: patterns differ between blocks. Approve samples.
FAQ
Quartzite: buyer questions
No. Quartzite is a natural stone. Engineered quartz is a manufactured product made from crushed quartz and resin.
Both are very durable. Quartzite is often harder and offers different looks. The best choice depends on colour, finish and budget.
Often a light seal is recommended for kitchens, but this varies by stone.
Need Quartzite for a project?
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Related
Related natural stones
Explore other materials often considered alongside this one.
Enquire about Quartzite
Tell us the size, finish, quantity and destination. We will confirm availability and send a quotation. Availability is confirmed per enquiry.
Helpful to include
- Stone type, size, thickness and finish
- Approximate quantity and delivery port
- Timeline and any documents you need