While natural stones like granite and quartz have many similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at those distinctions, so you can determine which material is the best fit for your next home improvement project.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is a hard, crystalline mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms. The atoms are arranged in a continuous framework of SiO4 silicon-oxygen tetrahedra, with each oxygen being shared between two tetrahedra, giving an overall chemical formula of SiO2. Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, behind feldspar.
Quartz crystals are used in watches and clocks as they are piezoelectric, meaning they can generate an electric charge when squeezed or otherwise distorted. Quartz sand is used in the production of glass, ceramics, and turquoise paints. When quartz is heated it can produce light, which makes it useful in lamps and headlamps. Quartz is also used in sonar technology and fiber optics.
What is Granite?
Granite is a natural stone that is formed deep within the Earth. It is made up of several different minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and mica. Granite is a very hard stone, making it durable and ideal for use in a wide range of applications. It is commonly used in countertops, flooring, and other decorative applications. Granite is available in a wide variety of colors, making it a popular choice for home and commercial projects alike.
Difference between Quartz and Granite
Quartz and granite are two of the most popular countertop materials on the market. Both are durable and beautiful, but they have several key differences. Quartz is a man-made material composed of natural Quartz crystals bound together with resin. Granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is mined from the earth. Quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, whereas granite is typically found in shades of black, white, and grey.
Quartz is also non-porous, making it more resistant to stains and bacteria. Granite, however, is slightly porous and must be sealed periodically to prevent staining. Quartz countertops are also more expensive than granite. When making a decision between quartz and granite, it is important to consider both cost and appearance.
Conclusion
Quartz and granite are both popular materials used for countertops, but there are some key differences between the two. Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the earth, while quartz is a manufactured product made from ground-up quartz crystals. Because of its manufacturing process, quartz can be designed to have a wider range of colors and patterns than granite. Both materials are durable and heat resistant, but granite is more scratch-resistant than quartz.
