Quartz: Manufactured product from loose quartz, binder and pigment

Pros/cons:

  • Highly durable

  • Scratch and stain resistant

  • No sealer necessary

  • Holds up to chemicals

  • Low maintenance 

  • Expensive

  • Not easy to repair 

  • Not heat resistant over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, though some say ok for hot pots and pans

  • Stands up to abrasive pads and serrated knives according to consumer reports 

  • Available in wider range of colors than quartzite because pigment can be added to it.

  • Beware of honed quartz as it shows stains and marks more easily than non-honed quartz

  • Permanent ink is an exception to stain resistance. Protect surface when using Sharpies. 

How to clean and maintain quartz:

  • Wipe with a damp cloth

  • Clean counter with soap and warm water daily, if possible

  • Scrape off dried gunk with a plastic scraper like a putty knife 

  • Do not use abrasive cleaners (nor should you need to)

  • No sealant necessary