Quartzite is often confused with Quartz.  Quartzite is naturally occurring metamorphic rock.  It is created when sandstone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure.  It is quarried into slabs.  Quartz is man-made.

Quartzite quarry and slab

Quartzite is becoming more popular with designers as it has the look and feel of marble, but does not require the same maintenance.  It is much more durable than marble and not nearly as porous.

I like to specify Quartzite in place of marble for a master bathroom.  It can be used just like marble on the walls, counter or tub surround.  Quartzite offers the same soft sophisticated look of marble, without the maintenance or fear of staining due to cosmetics and other products.

The many uses of Quartzite

Quartzite is very strong and heat resistant.  It is harder than granite, but can chip as it is stone.

Quartzite does require some maintenance and should be sealed at the time of installation and once a year after that.