You may be a bit confused in that there are granite countertops and Engineered Stone countertops. As discussed above, granite is a type of rock that is partially composed of quartz, a mineral. Therefore, what exactly is a Engineered Stone countertop?
You may initially think that a Engineered Stone countertop would be composed of a quartz arenite, a rock made up of at least 90% quartz.
However, you will find that Engineered Stone countertops are actually man made and although they consist of 90% quartz, the rest of the countertop is composed of resins, polymers, and various types of pigments.
This creates a very durable artificial rock without pores or cracks.
The pigment is used to provide coloration that is naturally found in quartz arenite.
Here, I’ll directly compare both granite countertops and Engineered Stone countertops with physical, chemical, and geologic parameters.
Mohs Hardness
Melting Point
Natural Radiation
Source
Natural Fractures
Porous
7 (pure quartz)
1670 °C
None
Man-made
None
No
6-7 (depending on mineralogy)
1215–1260 °C (dry)
Trace amounts
Natural
Small but variable amounts
Very slightly
The debate breaks down into a few large picture questions that you have to ask yourself. There are really two variables that you should take into account. One variable is whether you prefer a man made stone or a natural stone.
You will find much more beauty in granite and there is certainly an excitement involved in picking out the small imperfections and color variation. I’ll give this one to granite as it has a unique and impossible to replicate feel that never disappoints in upgrading your kitchen countertop.
The other variable is ease of use in a number of different factors. Engineered Stone countertops are sealed and therefore not porous, they are primarily made of quartz, which means they are more durable than granite.
You’ll find that quartz countertops are easier to clean, maintain, and forget about. If your primary concern is having a countertop that you can ignore and heavily use, quartz composite is the way to go.
The timeless beauty of granite. Millions of years in the making, its unique colors and depth will be the center showpiece of your spectacular kitchen.
The ultimate in elegant form and function.
Endless design possibilities to bring your dream kitchen to life
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