How Is Quartz Formed

Quartz is a term that is derived from the Polish words “kwardy” and ” twardy” meaning ‘hard.’ Quartz is an igneous rock that is composed of oxygen and silicon atoms in a continuous makeup of silicon-oxygen tetrahedra (SiO4). Each individual oxygen atom is shared between two tetrahedra atoms, giving quartz the final chemical formula scientifically known as SiO2. As one of the most abundant minerals in the planet’s continental crust, Quartz falls second right behind feldspar. Quartz is chiral and exists in 2 different forms, the normal alpha quartz and what is known as high-temperature beta quartz. The transformation process of going from alpha-quartz to beta-quartz all happens under 573 degrees Celsius. This transformation occurs with a drastic change in volume and can induce the fracturing of rocks passing through this limit of temperature or of ceramics. For more insight on “what is quartz”, continue reading.

Types Of Quartz

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral on the planet and so it comes in a variety. Some of the most common forms of quartz are known as amethyst, ametrine, rose quartz, carnelian, onyx, jasper, smokey quartz, agate, milky quartz, tiger’s eye and so much more. Quartz is a mineral that has been used in the making of kitchen and bath countertops for many decades. This is one of the top countertop materials that is purchased amongst builders, contractors, and homeowners alongside marble and granite.

How Are Quartz Countertops Made?

Have you ever wondered how quartz countertops are made? The process is actually very interesting. Quartz minerals are mined and then they are ground into an aggregate that is later fused with resin that binds the rock under intense pressure & heat to form a beautiful quartz slab. During the process of imparting color to the countertop, pigments are added to give it a unique and beautiful aesthetic.

Quartz Countertop Cost

If you are a builder, homeowner, or contractor and are looking to purchase quartz countertops for your property then you should keep in mind that you may end up paying just about the same amount as you would for natural stone. This runs anywhere from about sixty to ninety dollars per square foot of quartz. Prices are however subject to change. Reach out to BC Stone, the number one quartz countertop expert in Everett, PA.

How Long Will They Last?

Since quartz is one of the most durable minerals on the planet, you can bet that your quartz countertops will have a very long lifespan as long as you take good care of them. You must take into account that where you buy them also is a determining factor into how long your quartz countertops will last. Understand that you should do your research and read the reviews of any company you are considering purchasing your quartz slab from. Your countertops can last you a lifetime as long as you buy them from a reputable supplier and if you take good care of them.

Quartz Countertop Care

Not like wood or natural stone, quartz countertops do not need to be sealed, ever. All you have to do is grab a towel or cloth and dampen it in soapy water then wipe the surface off. If you see that your countertop has stains then remove them using a gentle cleansing scrub. Steer away from using scouring pads because they can dull the countertop surface. You also want to stay away from chemicals that are too hard because they can potentially break down the bonds between the resins and quartz. We hope you found this article explaining what is quartz, helpful.

For more related content be sure to check out our blog. If you would like to speak with a professional quartz countertop professional, contact us by calling (814) 652-2397.