Countertop Materials
Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite is a natural stone: sandstone that heat and pressure have transformed into a dense, crystalline rock. Each slab is quarried, so color and veining vary from slab to slab, and the stone is generally sealed to help it resist staining.
Our Lakeside showroom keeps working slab inventory of quartz and quartzite, so you can compare real slabs instead of small chips. Northern Lights Design supplies materials only; fabrication and installation are handled by the qualified project partners you choose.
What quartzite is
Quartzite is a metamorphic rock made mostly of quartz grains fused together. It is a different material from engineered quartz, which is manufactured from crushed quartz and resin. Because quartzite is quarried, no two slabs are identical, and the movement you see in the slab is the stone's own pattern.
Stones sold under the quartzite name can vary in hardness and porosity. Ask for the specific slab's care guidance and test a sample at home before you commit.
Care and sealing
- Quartzite is generally sealed at installation and resealed periodically; how often depends on the stone and the sealer, so follow the fabricator's and sealer manufacturer's guidance.
- Wipe up oils, wine, coffee and acidic spills promptly, especially before the first reseal.
- Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner made for natural stone; avoid harsh or abrasive products.
- Use trivets and cutting boards. Natural stone handles warm cookware better than resin-based surfaces, but sudden temperature changes and direct cutting are still best avoided.
- A simple water-drop test on a sample shows how readily the stone absorbs liquid and helps you judge when to reseal.
How quartzite differs from quartz and marble
Quartz countertops are engineered: consistent patterns, no routine sealing and resin that is sensitive to direct heat. Quartzite is natural, varies slab to slab and is typically sealed. Marble is a softer natural stone that etches from acidic foods and cleaners and develops a patina over time.
Many homeowners choose quartzite when they want a natural-stone look similar to marble with a harder surface, and quartz when they want uniformity and low routine care.
Selecting a slab at our Lakeside showroom
- Bring a cabinet door, hardware sample or paint color to view against the slab.
- Look at the whole slab and think about where the veining will fall on an island, perimeter run or backsplash.
- Note the finish (polished, honed or leathered) and how it reads in daylight and evening light.
- Share rough dimensions, sink and cooktop details and target timing so our team can prepare a written materials quote.
- Final measurements, templates, fabrication and installation stay with your fabricator and installer.
Quartzite Countertops FAQ
Is quartzite the same as quartz?
No. Quartzite is a natural stone quarried in slabs. Quartz countertops are engineered from crushed quartz and resin. See our quartz vs quartzite comparison.
Does quartzite need to be sealed?
Generally, yes. Quartzite is usually sealed at installation and resealed periodically. How often depends on the specific stone and sealer, so follow your fabricator's and the sealer manufacturer's guidance.
Can I see quartzite slabs in person?
Yes. Our Lakeside showroom keeps working slab inventory of quartz and quartzite. Contact us to confirm what is in stock before you visit.
Is quartzite a good choice for a kitchen island?
It can be. Quartzite's natural movement suits a large island, and choosing the full slab lets you see how the veining will fall. Ask your fabricator about seams and layout for your island size.
Does Northern Lights Design fabricate or install quartzite?
No. We are a materials supplier. Fabrication, templates and installation are handled by qualified project partners you select. We offer complimentary measuring for projects in our service area. We work with any installer you choose, and we're happy to recommend installers we know.
Request a quote
Tell us about your project and our team will follow up with a written materials quote.
See it in our Kalispell and Lakeside showrooms
Compare these materials side by side in person and take samples home to check in your own light.