What you need to know before venturing down the path of a Quartzite

Superwhite quartzite 1

If you’re in the market actively searching for interior surfaces for your residence and commercial projects or have been in the past, you no doubt would have come across the material “Quartzite”. If you have been scratching your head wondering what it was and where it came from, we can assure you that you haven’t been alone.

Below are a few details about what you need to know before you venture down the path of purchasing a quartzite material:

  • Quartzite is a Natural Product

Quartzite is quarried in blocks and cut into slabs like any other natural material. It is a strong metamorphic rock that starts as a sandstone and over time and under immense heat and pressure turns into the quartzite that it is. The material is great for kitchen benchtops, vanities, fireplaces, walls and stair treads and risers

  • Quartzite differs from Quartz

Quartz is a man-made, engineered surface and must not be confused with the natural Quartzite material. As they both have similar sounding names they are often mixed up by builders, architects and interior designers however their properties differ.

If you’re looking for a natural Quartzite slab that will make a long lasting impact, take a glimpse into our Super White product

  • Quartzite is quite hard

Quartzite is similar to a granite in the sense that it is very durable and resistant to many chemical attacks, extreme hot temperatures and scratches. As its formed, the empty spaces within the sandstone are filled with what is known as Quartz (the hardest known mineral) and once fused together with the added combination of heat and pressure the stone and will stand up to what can be dished out. There are many varities of performing Quartzites so be sure to ask your stone professional for assistance in this area.

  • Quartzite may be strong but still not bulletproof

Quartzite like all natural stone isn’t completely indestructible. Like all natural stones it will still need to be properly sealed and maintained. All spills from acidic liquids or foods should be wiped up promptly and the stone should be cleaned with PH neutral detergent to promote its longevity.

  • Not everything labelled online as Quartzite is the real deal

Many fabricators and suppliers will throw around the term Quartzite quite loosely in the industry. It may often be the case that they are describing a marble or dolomite material so it is important to talk with your provider of choice and completely understand what is required to maintain the quartzite of your choice.

  • Quartzite is popular amongst designers for its colour tone

Quartzites present us with a sophisticated, earthy toned backdrop that is trending in interior design right now. The stones typically creep towards the lighter colours like grey, whites and beiges that often resemble the look of marbles however with less maintenance.

visit us at Euro Marble and one of our expert sales staff will take the time to show you our vast collection of Quartzite materials that will wear well in the application you had intended to use it in. Give us a call on 8585 2999 or email us at sales@euromarble.com.au to organize an appointment.

Is it true that all Italian marbles are the same?

Italian marble quarry

Euro Marble is often visited by many who are remodeling or building new kitchens. They love the look of Italian white marble and are shown three different types being: Calacatta, Carrara and Statuario. This almost always begs them to ask the question, “Does it matter which one we choose? Aren’t all Italian Marbles the same?”

To the untrained eye, most white marble materials may look the same however there are differences. The most popular Italian marbles are from the Calacatta, Carrara and Statuario families mentioned above. From block to block, these three types may resemble one another however there are distinct differences and it is important to explain so you are selecting the right one for your design intent.

Carrara Marble from Carrara region in Italy

The Carrara marble tends to be more of a greyish to White in background colour with less large dramatic veining and more fine, linear veining that graces the slabs

Calacatta marble from Carrara region in Italy

Calacatta marble is prized for its white to milky white backgrounds with dramatic, thick veining that can range from grey to taupe coloured with undertones of brown and gold. Calacatta marble is far more luxurious and often bears a higher price tag than its counterpart Carrara.

Statuario marble from Carrara region in Italy

Statuario is the most precious of them all known for having a stark contrast of a crisp white background and grey veining with little to no gold or brown coloured veining.

All three families will vary from slab to slab and from block to block as no two slabs are identical. The unique appeal of each marble slab is what makes each project personal and a reflection of the consumer’s individual style. What is most important than deciding between the three names is choosing a stone that is aesthetically fit for the area in which you had intended to use it in.

At Euro Marble, we have a vast display of precious, exclusive and rare Italian marble varieties. You can see these in person at our showroom and warehouse conveniently located 15 minutes from Sydney’s CBD or visit our sample galley page of Italian marble for a sample snapshot.

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