With their marble-like elegance and natural durability, quartzite countertops have become a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and statement islands. How much do quartzite countertops cost? From slab quality to edge finishes and installation details, many factors influence the final price tag.
This guide will walk you through the key elements that shape quartzite pricing, so you can make confident choices without being surprised at checkout.
What Is Quartzite?
Quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock that begins as sandstone. With time, pressure, and heat, it transforms into a dense, crystalline surface that is prized for its durability and veining.
People often mistake quartzite slabs for marble slabs because of their soft, swirling patterns. But unlike marble, quartzite is far more scratch and heat resistant. It combines beauty with performance, which is part of the reason it tends to cost more than some other stones.
How Much Are Quartzite Countertops?
On average, you can expect to pay between $80 and $150 per square foot installed. This range includes material, fabrication, and installation. High-end or exotic varieties can exceed that, pushing the cost up to $200 per square foot or more, especially if the slab is rare or imported.
If you are wondering how much a quartzite slab costs on its own, the raw material usually costs $60 to $120 per square foot. But keep in mind that this does not include slab cutting, finishing, or installation. Those services can easily add another $20 to $50 per square foot, depending on location and project complexity.
Factors That Affect Quartzite Cost
Let’s look at what influences the price of quartzite countertops. Each project has its own mix of elements, so the total can shift quickly.
- Type and Rarity of Quartzite
Some quartzite varieties are more common, like Sea Pearl or Taj Mahal. Others, like Azul Macaubas or White Macaubas, are more exotic and harder to source. The rarer the slab, the higher the price per square foot.
- Slab Size and Thickness
Larger slabs reduce the number of seams but also come with a higher price tag. Most quartzite slabs come in 2 cm or 3 cm thickness, with the thicker option adding to both cost and weight. Thicker slabs are sturdier and often preferred for kitchen islands or waterfall edges.
- Fabrication Details
Edge styles make a difference. A simple straight edge is the most budget-friendly, while decorative edges like ogee or bullnose add labor time and cost. Cutouts for sinks, cooktops, or custom curves also increase the total.
- Installation Complexity
The shape and layout of your space will influence labor costs. Straight countertops with easy access are faster to install than L-shaped kitchens, full backsplashes, or areas with tight corners and multiple cutouts.
- Location and Labor
Like most home upgrades, your zip code matters. Prices for quartzite slabs and labor tend to be higher in major metro areas than in rural regions. Transportation costs also vary depending on how far the slab travels from the quarry to the warehouse to your home.
Can You Save on Quartzite?
If you love the look of quartzite but are working with a tighter budget, here are a few ways to trim costs without sacrificing quality:
- Choose a more common variety
- Opt for a thinner slab (2 cm instead of 3 cm)
- Use quartzite only on a centerpiece, like an island
- Pair it with a lower-cost material on perimeter counters
- Go for simpler edges and fewer cutouts
Working with a reputable tile supplier can also help you find deals or remnant pieces from larger slabs.
Maintenance and Long-term Value
Quartzite is a long-lasting surface that holds up well under daily use. It resists scratches and heat better than marble and, with proper sealing, can resist stains effectively. That makes it a strong investment for homeowners who want both form and function.
Periodic sealing helps keep the surface protected, but beyond that, maintenance is simple. Wipe with mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals, and use cutting boards to preserve the polish.
Find Your Perfect Quartzite at Elit Tile
For many homeowners, the mix of natural beauty, strength, and low upkeep makes quartzite worth every penny. At Elit Tile, we carry a curated selection of slabs and prefabricated countertops in a wide range of colors, styles, and thicknesses. Whether you are looking for something bold or understated, we have options that suit every budget and design vision.
With experienced staff, transparent pricing, and a passion for craftsmanship, we help homeowners and contractors bring their surfaces to life. Visit one of our showrooms or browse online to discover how quartzite can transform your space.