Quartz has become one of the most popular materials in home design, especially for kitchen countertops, vanities, and backsplashes. But many homeowners don’t know that not all quartz is created equal. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of quartz available today, why engineered quartz was developed, how it’s made, and which brands are considered the best.
Why Was Quartz Created?
Natural stone like marble and granite is beautiful, but it comes with its drawbacks: inconsistency in appearance, porosity, and a need for regular sealing and maintenance. Quartz was created as an engineered alternative to combine the natural beauty of stone with superior durability and consistency.
Engineered quartz is made by combining about 90-95% ground natural quartz with resins, polymers, and pigments. The result is a non-porous, low-maintenance surface that resists stains, scratches, and bacteria—perfect for modern homes and commercial spaces.
Types of Quartz in the Market
While all engineered quartz is made using a similar method, there are significant differences in design, finish, and quality. Here’s what you’ll typically find:
- Standard Quartz
These are reliable, everyday quartz surfaces with solid or speckled patterns. They’re typically more affordable and widely available. - Luxury/Designer Quartz
Premium lines feature marble-look veins, ultra-white bases, and sophisticated patterns. These are designed to mimic high-end stones like Calacatta or Carrara marble but without the maintenance headaches. - Bookmatched Quartz
These slabs are mirrored for dramatic veining patterns—ideal for waterfall islands or full-height backsplashes. - Quartz with Additives
Some products include metallic or glass pieces to create a shimmer or sparkle. Others may incorporate recycled content for a more sustainable option.
Differences in Quartz Quality
Not all quartz is made equal. Here’s what affects quality:
Quartz Content: Higher-quality products use a higher percentage of pure quartz, which makes them more durable.
Resin Ratio: Cheaper quartz may have too much resin, making it softer or more prone to discoloration.
Consistency in Production: Well-known brands have tighter quality controls, ensuring even veining, polish, and structural integrity.
Warranty & Certification: Look for certifications like NSF, Greenguard, or ISO, and check for warranties (some offer 10+ years or even lifetime coverage).
Top Quartz Brands in the Market
Here are some of the most reputable quartz manufacturers in the industry:
Caesarstone – One of the original pioneers of quartz surfaces. Known for innovation and design-forward patterns.
Cambria – American-made, known for bold veining, exceptional strength, and exclusive proprietary designs.
Silestone by Cosentino – Offers an extensive color range, durability, and features like bacteriostatic protection.
MSI Q Quartz – A great value choice with a wide selection of marble-look and solid-color quartz options.
PentalQuartz – A trusted name in both residential and commercial applications, PentalQuartz offers a broad range of colors and finishes with a reputation for consistent quality and modern design aesthetics.
Compac – A premium European brand combining art and innovation, Compac is known for its luxurious finishes and high-performance quartz surfaces ideal for upscale kitchens and baths.
Quantum Quartz – Popular in both residential and commercial spaces, Quantum Quartz offers a reliable selection of contemporary and classic styles, with a strong reputation in durability and affordability.
At Stone Wills Inc., we have extensive experience fabricating and installing quartz from all of these leading brands. We can help you compare options and find the perfect material that fits both your aesthetic and functional goals.
How Quartz is Made: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
Sourcing & Crushing: Natural quartz is mined, sorted, and crushed into fine particles.
Mixing: Crushed quartz is blended with resins and pigments to form a thick paste.
Molding: The mixture is poured into molds and compacted using vacuum vibration to remove air bubbles.
Curing: The slabs are baked in ovens to harden the resin and bond the particles.
Polishing & Finishing: Finally, the slabs are polished to a glossy or matte finish, then cut to standard sizes.
This process results in a surface that’s harder than granite, resistant to bacteria and moisture, and easier to maintain.
BONUS: Obsidian and Other Engineered Stone Materials
While quartz is a man-made surface using natural quartz, other unique materials are also gaining popularity:
Obsidian – Volcanic Glass
Obsidian is a natural volcanic stone formed from rapidly cooled lava. It has a deep, glossy black appearance and was used historically for tools and weapons due to its sharp edges.
In modern interiors, obsidian is occasionally used for decorative tiles, luxury accents, and even countertops, though it’s less common and more fragile than quartz or granite.
Sintered Stone (Dekton, Neolith)
This is an ultra-compact surface made by fusing raw minerals under high heat and pressure—no resins involved. It’s heatproof, UV-resistant, scratch-resistant, and stain-proof. Ideal for indoor and outdoor applications.
Porcelain Slabs
These large-format tiles mimic marble, wood, or concrete, and are extremely durable and non-porous. They’re great for backsplashes, walls, and flooring.
Recycled Glass and Concrete Surfaces
Eco-friendly options like Vetrazzo or IceStone combine recycled glass chips with concrete or resin, offering colorful, sustainable alternatives for green-minded projects.
Let the Experts at Stone Wills Inc. Help You Choose
At Stone Wills Inc., we pride ourselves on offering not only the best materials but also the knowledge and craftsmanship to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for timeless marble-look quartz, bold modern colors, or something truly unique, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Give us a call at 407-404-8581 or visit stonewillsinc.com to schedule your free consultation. Let Stone Wills Inc. bring your vision to life with premium stone or quartz surfaces tailored just for you.
