Granite vs. Quartzite: Choosing the Perfect Natural Stone for Your Kitchen

If you’re considering granite or quartzite for your kitchen remodel, you’re already on the right track. Both are durable, timeless natural stones that outperform synthetic materials like quartz in heat resistance and longevity.

Whether you're drawn to the bold patterns of granite or the marble-like elegance of quartzite, these stones can elevate your space if you choose wisely.

At Distinctive Countertops and Cabinetry, we’ve worked with every type of natural stone surface, and we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.

Which Is Better for Kitchen Countertops: Granite or Quartzite?

Granite and quartzite are two of the most sought-after natural stone surfaces for kitchen countertops, and for good reason. They’re durable, beautiful, and made to last. But if you’re comparing granite vs quartzite for your remodel, know this: they’re not the same stone, and they don’t perform exactly the same in your home.

From stain resistance to heat durability to how they age over time, each brings its own pros and quirks. This section breaks it down, so you can make the right call for your kitchen.

How Granite and Quartzite Are Formed — And Why It Matters

To understand these materials, start at their core.

• Granite is an igneous rock, formed when magma cools slowly underground. It’s dense, speckled, and packed with quartz and feldspar crystals.

• Quartzite is a metamorphic rock, created when sandstone is transformed by intense pressure and heat deep in the earth.

That difference in formation impacts everything, from hardness to porosity, from how the stone holds up to how often it needs to be sealed.

Quartzite vs. Granite: Which Is Harder and More Durable?

Quartzite is technically harder than granite, scoring higher on the Mohs hardness scale. That means it's more resistant to scratches, on paper.

In the real world, both stones are extremely durable. They handle daily wear and tear well, especially when installed and sealed properly. That said, no stone is indestructible. Dropping a heavy pot or cutting directly on the stone surface can still cause damage.

Bottom line: either stone can take what a kitchen throws at it, if treated with care.

Stain Resistance, Porosity, and Sealants

Both stones are naturally porous, which means sealing is non-negotiable.

• Granite countertops, when sealed properly, do a great job resisting stains from oils, wine, and everyday messes.

• Quartzite countertops may be slightly more absorbent, depending on the variety, and may need more frequent sealing to stay protected.

Neither material is “high maintenance,” but neither is truly low maintenance either. If you're after long-term stain resistance, keeping up with your sealing schedule matters more than which stone you choose.

Heat Resistance and Real-World Kitchen Use

Heat is one of the reasons natural stone countertops outperform synthetic options.

• Granite can handle hot pans briefly, though it’s smart to use trivets and avoid pushing your luck.

• Quartzite is also resistant to heat, and many homeowners love that it gives them the look of marble with more durability.

If your kitchen gets real use, not just photo ops, both materials can keep up. Just remember: the way you use the counter matters as much as the stone itself.

How to Choose Between Granite and Quartzite for Your Kitchen Remodel

Once you understand how granite and quartzite perform, the next step is knowing which one fits your lifestyle, and your kitchen. This isn’t just about hardness or heat resistance. It’s about what you see every day, how much care you’re willing to put in, and how you want your space to feel five years from now.

Let’s look at what really drives the decision between these two natural stones.

Style Differences — The Look of Each Natural Stone

Granite slabs offer a massive range of colors, movement, and visual texture. Some are bold and dramatic. Others are subtle and neutral. You’ll find everything from speckled blacks to swirling blues and creamy earth tones.

Quartzite slabs, on the other hand, often deliver a softer, cleaner look — with veining that mimics marble. Think soft whites, pale grays, or muted earth tones. If you’re going for a modern or elevated classic aesthetic, quartzite is a popular choice.

Love the look of white granite but want a touch more elegance? Quartzite might be your move.

Price Considerations: Is Quartzite More Expensive Than Granite?

Yes, quartzite is generally more expensive than granite.

Why? It’s rarer in the market, and it’s tougher to cut and fabricate, which adds labor and tooling costs. Granite is more abundant, comes in more price tiers, and tends to be easier to work with.

That said, the final price depends on your choices; the specific slab, edge detail, number of sink cutouts, and your kitchen’s layout can all move the number up or down. But if you’re looking for a high-end natural stone, expect quartzite to cost more per square foot.

Maintenance Expectations: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you’re not one for regular maintenance, you’ll want to think carefully.

• Both granite and quartzite need to be sealed every 1 to 3 years, depending on use and how porous your specific slab is.

• Granite may be slightly more forgiving if you miss a reseal, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free.

• If you’re a frequent cook or your kitchen gets heavy use, ask about advanced sealants or low-maintenance finishes that can reduce upkeep over time.

No natural stone is 100% carefree. But with the right prep and habits, both options will last beautifully.

What Do You Value Most? A Simple Decision Framework

Still stuck between granite or quartzite? Here’s a quick gut check:

• Want bold patterns and tons of options?  Choose granite

• Want the look of marble with more durability? Choose quartzite

• Want the most stain resistance? Pick either, but keep it properly sealed

• Want to know what it’ll really look like in your kitchen? Visit our slab gallery in person

Choosing the perfect stone isn’t just about specs; it’s about how the space feels when you walk in. Let your eye and lifestyle guide you.

Ready to See Granite and Quartzite Side by Side?

Still deciding between granite or quartzite? You’re not alone; both are stunning, durable natural stones, and the right choice depends on how you live, cook, and use your kitchen.

At Distinctive Countertops and Cabinetry, we’ve spent nearly 40 years helping homeowners make smart, lasting choices for their homes. Come visit our showroom and indoor slab gallery in Kalispell. You’ll see the actual granite and quartzite slabs, feel the textures, and get real advice from experts who work with these materials every day.

FAQs: Granite vs. Quartzite — What Homeowners Ask Most

Is quartzite harder than granite?

Yes. Quartzite is technically harder than granite and more resistant to scratches. That said, it’s also more brittle during fabrication, which can make cutting and edgework more complex.

Does quartzite stain more easily than granite?

It can. Both are porous natural stones, and sealing is essential for stain protection. Quartzite countertops may require more frequent sealing, depending on the slab and finish.

Is quartzite a natural stone?

Absolutely. Quartzite is a natural stone, formed when sandstone is compressed under intense pressure and heat, making it one of the hardest natural materials used for countertops.

Is quartz the same as quartzite?

No. Quartz is a man-made material, made from crushed quartz and resin. Quartzite is a natural stone, cut from slabs like granite or marble, and it performs differently in terms of heat resistance and durability.

Which is better for a kitchen: granite or quartzite?

Both are top-tier options. Choose quartzite if you want the look of marble with serious durability. Choose granite for more style variety and a wider price range. Your lifestyle and maintenance habits will tip the scale.