Countertop guide
Quartzite vs. Granite Countertops: Choosing a Natural Stone
The short answer
Both are natural stone, durable and heat-tolerant, and both need periodic sealing. Granite is an igneous rock with a speckled, grainy look in a wide range of colors, and MSI rates it a little better at resisting stains and scratches. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed from sandstone, often lighter with marble-like veining, and true quartzite resists etching from acids. Choose by the look you want, then confirm care for the specific slab.
Manufacturer image · MSI
Manufacturer image · MSIQuartzite and granite at a glance
| Feature | Quartzite | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| How it forms | Metamorphic: sandstone under heat and pressure | Igneous: cooled magma |
| Typical look | Often white, gray or beige, with veining | Speckled or grainy; wide color range |
| Etching from acids | True quartzite resists etching | Resistant |
| Stains and scratches | Resistant | MSI rates it slightly better |
| Sealing | Periodically | Periodically |
| Outdoors | Offered by MSI for outdoor counters | Offered by MSI for outdoor counters |
General characteristics. Care and suitability vary by product and slab, so check the supplier's guidance for yours.
How they form and how they look
MSI describes quartzite as a metamorphic stone formed from sandstone, often in white, gray or beige, and granite as an igneous stone formed from cooled magma, with a wider color range (MSI Surfaces). Quartzite is usually chosen for marble-like veining; granite for speckled patterns and deeper colors.
Durability and care
MSI says both resist scratches, heat and chemicals, and that quartzite rates about 7 on the Mohs hardness scale (MSI Surfaces). In MSI's comparison, granite resists stains and scratches slightly better, while true quartzite doesn't etch with acids; both need sealing (MSI Surfaces). MSI suggests sealing both about once a year (MSI Surfaces).
Some stones sold as quartzite behave more like marble. Ask for the supplier's data on the specific slab, and test a sample with lemon juice if you're unsure.
Outdoors and in the sun
MSI offers both granite and quartzite for outdoor countertops (MSI Surfaces). See our outdoor materials guide.
Real examples
- Quartzite: Taj Mahal, White Macaubas and Fantasy Macaubas.
- Granite: Colonial White, Black Pearl and Absolute Black.
- Prefer a warm look? Browse Taj Mahal and beige countertops.
FAQ
Common questions
Is quartzite harder than granite?
They're close. MSI puts quartzite at about 7 on the Mohs scale and says both resist scratches well; in its comparison, granite is slightly more stain- and scratch-resistant.
Which needs more maintenance?
About the same: MSI suggests sealing both about once a year and cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner. Care varies by slab, so follow the supplier's guidance.
Can I use quartzite or granite in an outdoor kitchen?
Yes. MSI offers both for outdoor countertops. We confirm exterior use for the specific product before fabrication.
Sources
Material properties on this page come from these supplier and industry pages, checked November 1, 2026.
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