But What About Quartz?

The color choices and patterns of countertop material made from quartz (known as engineered stone) have improved a great deal over the past 20 years.  Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, HanStone, and Zodiaq are a few of the brand names, and they are all made using the same manufacturing process.  Engineered stone is approximately 93% crushed quartz (which is why it is often just called "quartz") combined with polyester resin.  The crushed quartz usually starts out as a slightly translucent white color and it is divided into a variety of granule sizes before it is colored for the particular pattern that is being produced.

 Some colors are made from very finely ground granules for a more uniform appearance (top photo), while others use larger pieces of quartz for a chunkier look.  During manufacturing, the quartz/resin mixture is compacted by a special vacuum/vibration process at a pressure of 100 tons and is heated to form a solid and extremely hard surface.  I've toured Cambria's nice facility here in Minnesota and it really is fascinating to observe the process!  You should check into going on a plant tour if you have the time. 

Each manufacturer would like you to know that they use the best quality quartz available.  The colors and patterns vary from brand to brand.  Sometimes a company will try to imitate the color of a competitor, but they all have their own unique offerings as well.  All told, they vary little, if at all, in durability, scratch resistance, heat resistance, stain resistance and chemical resistance.  Engineered stone gets top ratings in all these categories.  Natural quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth and that's why engineered stone is so scratch resistant.  It is also very hygienic because it is non-porous and resists the growth of mildew, bacteria, and mold.  Keep in mind, however, that it is not completely impervious to scratches, stains, and heat damage.  Because of the resins, the engineered stone can be damaged by direct intense heat.  If you treat it with care (as you would any investment) by making use of trivets (for hot items) and cutting boards (for chopping), your quartz countertops will remain beautiful for many, many years. And your knives will thank you, too!

Check out some of the beautiful new quartz colors that are available from Silestone and Cambria:

 Looks a little like they wish they were granite......