| Granite or Quartz, the ‘stone’ age debate |
Choosing a worktop shouldn’t feel harder than choosing the kitchen itself.
Granite and quartz are known to cause a bit of head-scratching. They look similar at first glance, yet they behave very differently once real life gets involved.
So, here’s the no-nonsense guide.
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First up, what they’re actually made from.
Granite is a natural stone, cut straight from quarried rock. That means every slab is completely unique, with its own pattern, movement and colour variation. No two kitchens ever look quite the same.
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Quartz is engineered. It’s made from crushed natural quartz, binding resins, and pigments. The result is a highly consistent surface where the colour and pattern stay exactly as expected from slab to slab.
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Looks wise, it comes down to personality.
Granite suits kitchens that lean toward traditional, characterful or timeless styles. The natural variation is part of its charm and adds depth you simply can’t fake.
Quartz is ideal if you prefer a cleaner, more uniform look. It works beautifully in modern and contemporary spaces, especially if you want precise colour matching or a sleek finish.
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Now for the practical stuff, the bit that matters once the kitchen is actually being used.
Quartz is non-porous, so it doesn’t absorb spills, stains or moisture. It’s easy to keep clean and doesn’t need sealing, making it a favourite for busy households.
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Granite is incredibly tough and naturally heat-resistant, so hot pans aren’t usually an issue. However, because it is porous, it needs to be sealed to protect it from staining and should be maintained over time.
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Both materials are strong, long lasting and perfectly suited to kitchen life, but quartz tends to win for low maintenance, while granite wins for natural character.
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What about cost?
Prices for granite and quartz often sit in a similar range, depending on the colour and finish you choose. In most cases, the decision isn’t really about budget; it’s about which surface fits your lifestyle and your taste.
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In simple terms.
Choose granite if you love natural stone and don’t mind a bit of upkeep. Choose quartz if you want consistency, simplicity and minimal maintenance.
If you’d like to see the difference in person, we’re always happy to talk you through samples and help you find the right option for your kitchen.
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Author
Alex Jennings
Owner of Stone & Quartz, the largest reputable mainstream worktop fabricator dedicated to delivering a wide variety of premium surfaces directly to consumers. With a passion for quality and choice, Alex ensures every customer has the freedom to find the perfect surface to suit their style and budget.
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