Granite is a natural stone, while quartz is a man-made material that uses the strongest part of granite-natural quartz. This article focuses on Granite vs Quartz.
Quartz
Man-made Quartz derives its name from the natural mineral quartz which comprises about 95% of its make-up and then about 5% polymer resins. The combination of strong natural quartz gives quartz countertops great durability while the resins help to make the product non-porous (unlike natural stones ie: Granite). Quartz is typically more consistent in pattern and offers a wide range of colors, patterns, styles, and brands to choose among. It is scratch, stain, and heat resistant (but not heat proof! Trivets recommended). Pricing will vary among quartz brands and styles. The brand, along with the popularity of a color, and the complexity of its design will influence the raw slab price from the manufacturer. Quartz will typically range from low/mid-range to high price points.
Granite
Granite by contrast is a natural stone, meaning that there are no “brands” and the consistency is at Mother Nature’s discretion. So unlike quartz no two slabs are alike! Granite will come in a variety of colors and patterns. It can be characterized by its visible grains and will have a variety of colors to choose among. Granite can vary in porosity and needs to be kept sealed to prevent staining (some colors more frequently than others). Granite is very hard, so will be scratch and chip resistant. Cutting on granite is not recommended as it will dull your knives. Granite can handle higher heat temperatures than quartz. Your pots and pans right out of the oven on it are no problem for it! Granite is quarried right out of the earth and shipped worldwide to be custom fabricated for your home. It will range in price from low to high. Many granites will be at a lower price point or comparable in price to quartz.
Granite vs Quartz, you decide!