Quartz, also known as engineered stone, is a man-made material consisting of ground natural quartz mixed with resins, polymers and various pigments. Granite is a natural stone quarried from the earth in mines across the globe. Granite is composed mainly of quartz and a mixture of other minerals. The percentage of these varies and therefore provides variations in color and pattern in every slab. It is crucial to select the exact piece you want installed rather than choosing from a sample which may vary significantly from the final product that is installed.

This natural variation of granite often leads homeowners to choose it over quartz, as quartz is more consistent and uniform in color.  Although most quartz patterns are consistent, we can find many quartz slabs with interesting and sometimes very intense patterns and colors as well.  In both cases, a slab viewing before cutting your countertop pieces is strongly recommended.   Our suppliers can also take a picture of your slab and show you where they would place the counter layout before cutting the pieces.

Quartz is by far the most environmentally friendly option, especially if you pick one that is manufactured locally.  It is a highly durable, non-porous surface, because of the resins and polymers that are combined with the natural quartz, which give it a surface that is free of cracks and pores.  With proper maintenance, granite can last a lifetime, however, it is a much more porous material than quartz and can break or chip if struck with heavy objects.  Granite also requires maintenance in the form of regular polishing, whereas quartz does not.

We hope that this information helps you in your decision making when it is time to select your countertop!