When homeowners begin exploring natural stone countertops, granite and quartzite are often the top contenders. Both are beautiful, long-lasting, and full of unique natural variation. But there’s one key question that comes up again and again:
Is quartzite harder than granite?
In most cases — yes. And understanding why can help you choose the right stone for your home.
How Hardness Is Measured
Stone hardness is typically rated using the Mohs hardness scale, which ranks scratch resistance from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest).
Here’s where these countertop materials fall:
| Material | Mohs Hardness | What That Means |
|---|---|---|
| Quartzite | 7–8 | Resists scratches from household items and even most metals |
| Granite | 6–7 | Still hard, but slightly more susceptible to scratching |
Just one point difference on the Mohs scale may sound small — but it’s a significant jump in real-world durability.
Why Quartzite Is Typically Harder
Quartzite starts as quartz-rich sandstone buried deep underground. Over millions of years, intense heat and pressure fuse those quartz grains into a dense, solid mass — transforming the stone into what we know as quartzite.
Granite is also strong, but it’s composed of:
-
Quartz
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Feldspar
-
Mica
Those different minerals create beauty but also form soft spots, making granite’s hardness slightly less consistent.
What This Means in Your Home
Scratch Resistance
Quartzite stands up better to:
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Kitchen knives
-
Pots and pans
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Kids doing crafts on the counter
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Everyday wear
(Though we still recommend cutting boards — mostly to protect your knives!)
Surface Longevity
A harder surface means:
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Less visible wear over time
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Fewer micro-scratches that dull the finish
-
A better long-term investment
Ease of Cleaning
Smoother, harder surfaces accumulate less residue and become easier to maintain.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes — names can be misleading.
Some stones sold as “quartzite” may actually be:
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Dolomite
-
Soft quartzite
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Marble-like stones
A quick scratch test can help verify authenticity:
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If the stone scratches glass → true quartzite
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If glass scratches the stone → softer stone
Your fabricator can test this before fabrication.
Is Harder Always Better?
Hardness is important — but it’s not the only consideration.
Here’s a simplified comparison:
| Category | Quartzite | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Heat Resistance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Maintenance | Low | Low–Medium |
| Appearance | Marble-like elegance | Speckled / more traditional |
| Cost | Medium–High | Medium |
Bottom line:
If you want maximum durability with luxury aesthetics, quartzite is a top contender.
Final Verdict – Is Quartzite Harder Than Granite?
So, is quartzite harder than granite?
✔ In most cases — yes.
✔ It offers stronger scratch resistance and higher durability.
✔ It’s one of the best choices for active kitchens and long-term value.
But both stones are excellent countertop materials. Your final choice should also consider the look, finish, and feel that best fits your home.