Quartz is often substituted as the cheaper alternative to high-end countertops, quartz has found its reputation by bringing a regal ambiance to nearly any room it is placed in. Today, quartz no longer struggles to compete with its two closest competitors, granite and marble, which out sold quartz prior to its recognition as superior.

Those unfamiliar with quartz as it’s used for countertops and surfaces, may know it by one of these more well-known brand names such as Silestone, Cambria, and Caesarstone. The etymology of quartz implies luster and hardness. It’s from the mid 18th century – from the word Quarz and the Polish dialect kwardy, corresponding to standard Polish twardy which means hard.

The stone mixture that makes up the majority of the quartz slab is a combination of quartz and resin. However, some brands mix it with marble, granite, and other natural stones, as well as fragmented materials such as glass, mirrors, ceramic, and silica. Some manufacturers also include antibacterial substances to fight off bacteria growing on countertops.

One of the biggest benefits that quartz surfaces offer is its hardness. Solid and touch, a quartz surface will show its depth and range of colors even after years of heavy usage. This ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage makes it a great fit for any busy room.

Granite is cut in slabs straight out of the earth, is it a natural stone. Quartz on the other hand is engineered. Since it is manufactured it has far less imperfections and it’s less expensive. Additionally, almost any color imaginable can be brought out in its surface through a pigmentation process. While natural stones can be quite limited in their color selection.

Finding the right material for surfaces is a crucial part of designing a building. It’s an important aspect in creating an ambiance to perfectly satisfy your tastes. A reason to choose Quartz is because it’s far less expensive than most granites and marbles. Additionally, as mentioned before, the appearance of quartz can be manipulated. This enables its creators to ensure that each slab is the right texture, pattern, and color. Furthermore, quartz is incredibly durable. During the manufacturing procedure resin is united with the stone which makes it more durable than natural stones. Lastly, it is easier to clean than natural stones. Its nonporous nature prevents substances from getting stuck in the microscopic nooks and crannies which results in a stain resistant surface that is less likely to house bacteria.