the difference between marble, quartzite and onyx

When it comes to creating luxurious and captivating spaces, few materials can rival the natural beauty and elegance of marble, quartzite, and onyx. Each of these stones possesses unique characteristics that make them highly sought after in the world of interior design. In this blog post, we will delve into the key differences between marble, quartzite, and onyx, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed choice for your next project.

What is marble, quartzite and onyx?

• Marble is formed from limestone exposed to immense heat and pressure.
• Quartzite is a metamorphic rock derived from sandstone and transformed under intense heat and pressure.
• Onyx is a mesmerizing stone renowned for its translucent appearance and captivating color variations. Formed in caves through the deposition of calcium carbonate, onyx is truly a unique gem of nature.

Look and colors

• Marble offers a diverse range of colors and patterns, from classic whites and creams to vibrant hues and striking veining. This natural variation makes each marble slab a unique work of art.
• Quartzite displays a wide range of colors, including white, gray, beige, and pink, with captivating veining patterns. Its natural beauty creates a luxurious atmosphere in any setting.
• Onyx's unique quality lies in its translucency, allowing light to pass through the stone. Onyx exhibits a wide array of colors, including shades of white, yellow, orange, green, and brown. The distinct bands or layers add depth and intrigue to any application.

Durability

• Marble is a soft and porous material, but handled with care it can last for many, many years.
• Quartzite's superior hardness and durability make it highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It is an excellent option for high-traffic areas and is even stronger than some types of granite.
• Like marble, onyx is a soft and porous stone, but if cared for and maintained it can also last for hundreds of years.

Price

Within each of the types (marble, quartzite and onyx), you will find different types and colors, all with different price points, but as a rule of thumb onyx is the most expensive of the types, quartzite the second and marble the third.