Pure quartz, traditionally called rock crystal or clear quartz, is colorless and transparent or translucent and has often been used for hardstone carvings, such as the Lothair Crystal. Common colored varieties include citrine, rose quartz, amethyst, smoky quartz, milky quartz, and others.
The world's purest quartz
Nestled among the peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Spruce Pine has a rich history as the source of the world's highest quality quartz.
Premium-grade or first choice quartz is the highest quality and most expensive grade. Grade A quartz is engineered by combining natural quartz with resin and colored pigments. It offers the most intricate patterns and colors, resembling natural stones like granite and marble.
Quartz is composed of the elements silicon and oxygen, and in its pure state is colorless. However, just small amounts of various impurities in quartz can yield a range of vivid colors. The profusion of colors, patterns, and textures displayed by quartz makes it one of the most widely used gem materials.
From the ancient Greek word amethystos (literally, “not drunk”), this wine-colored gem was widely esteemed for its perceived ability to ward off intoxication. While we don't expect Amethyst to cure or prevent a hangover, it remains the most valuable variety of gemstone within the quartz family.
Derived from the Latin word citrina, meaning "yellow", natural citrine is the rarest of the quartz varieties, which include amethyst, aventurine and prasiolite.
Cambria is proudly made right here in the U.S.A. This family-owned premium grade quartz countertop manufacturer is not just the only highest quality producer in the country, but is regarded as one of the best countertop fabricators in the world.
That combination produces a color-consistent slab during the manufacturing process. With poor-quality quartz, the resin will often pool in one section. Finally, higher quartz grades will have a consistent shine on the surface.
White and gray are the most popular quartz colors, and the two hues combine perfectly in VIATERA's Cirrus white quartz. Subtle hints of gray invite you to take a closer look as they float across a cotton-white surface.
Real clear quartz may have inclusions that make the inside of the crystal appear scratched or foggy, while fake glass quartz may appear completely perfect. Some inclusions can't be seen with the naked eye. Try putting your crystal under a microscope to see if you can spot any imperfections.
Examine the quartz slab for flaws, cracks, chips, scrapes, stains, watermarks, or contaminants. Quartz thickness levels should also be consistent throughout the slab, which is an indicator of its quality.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Quartz Countertops
The grade is determined by the quality of quartz used, the complexity of the color and pattern, and the overall finish. High-end quartz often features intricate patterns and a more polished finish, contributing to a higher price.
The quartz is sourced in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, USA, where the unique geology offers the world's highest purity quartz deposits. From there, products are shipped to a state-of-the-art facility in Drag, Norway, enabling the production of quartz which is 99.998% SiO2.
Pure quartz, traditionally called rock crystal or clear quartz, is colorless and transparent or translucent and has often been used for hardstone carvings, such as the Lothair Crystal.
High purity quartz is an important industrial mineral required in the production of micro-electronics and electronics. For most mined quartz, there is an issue overall with impurity and varying consistency in purity that forces additional processing depending on the application the mineral is used for.
Trending Quartz Countertop Designs for 2024-2025
Among the most coveted is Calacatta Quartz, revered for its striking resemblance to natural marble and its ability to add elegance to any kitchen.
Cotterite is the rarest variety on Earth of the most common mineral on Earth. Cotterite is a type of quartz that was only ever found in County Cork and that shows a unique trait.
Classic White Quartz
White quartz countertops are durable, resistant to stains and scratches, and low maintenance. Quartz's clean, minimalist aesthetic effortlessly complements various design styles, making it a desirable choice that never truly goes out of fashion.
2) It's Vulnerable to Heat Damage
Excessive heat can damage a quartz countertop because its resins melt when in contact with heat. That's why you should avoid putting items like hot pots, pans or curling irons directly on the surface.
Caesarstone, Silestone, and Cambria Quartz are among the most popular high-end quartz brands, known for their quality and extensive color options. Many quartz manufacturers now produce designs that closely mimic the look of natural stone like marble and granite.
To give you an idea of the range: Samsung quartz tends to be among the most affordable options, with prices hovering between $50 and $60 per square foot. On the higher end, Corian quartz can range from $60 to as much as $100 per square foot. It all really depends on the specific brand and quality you're after.
Quartz countertops cost an average of $125 per square foot, with prices ranging between $50 and $200 per square foot, depending on the quality, finish, edge options, and labor costs in your area. Materials will account for between 40% and 50% of your total, and delivery and installation labor will account for the rest.
High-quality quartz countertops, made using advanced technology and a higher concentration of exceptionally pure quartz minerals, typically command a higher price. Cambria quartz surfaces are proudly made in America, where superior craftsmanship and innovation drive us to deliver the finest products.
Ultimately, the choice between quartz and Silestone comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability and low maintenance, both options are excellent. However, if you desire a wider range of design choices and customization possibilities, Silestone might be the superior choice.