Granite and Marble Designs in Denver, Colorado

Is Granite Cheaper than Quartz?

The price of stone varies and depends heavily on the type of slab you choose. In general, one may be more or less expensive than the other. In this blog, we will identify characteristics that contribute to the price and value of granite and quartz.

Quartz, on average, is less expensive than other stones such as granite or marble. However, this doesn’t mean certain pieces of quartz won’t be found with a higher price tag. Many factors and variables make up these prices. Some stone slabs are more rare and possess qualities that make their value increase. These qualities may include:

• Uniqueness
• Color
• Manufacturer
• Quality

Granite is More Rare

Granite is a natural stone that is formed by earth’s natural erosion and settlement of rocks and minerals over time. Granite is carved from the surface of the earth and formed into slabs. It has a combination of minerals and sediments that create the unique speckle granite is often known for.

Since granite is a purely natural stone, its characteristics cannot be altered in any way. For this reason, some granite slabs are less common and harder to find than others. As a result, there is a broad range in price among granite slabs. This range can be anywhere between $60 and $300.

In addition, the acquisition and transportation of certain granites can be more expensive, which results in a higher price tag. Fossils are another unique and extremely rare quality that not all granites have – this will also increase the value.

The unique, one-of-a-kind quality of granite slabs is one of the primary reasons it is generally more expensive than quartz.

Quartz Offers Modernity

Quartz countertops are becoming the most sought out in the stone fabrication industry. They offer modernity and high end qualities for a timeless design. Designers, contractors and homeowners are ditching granite for the next best thing – quartz.

As quartz slabs become more and more popular, the price has steadily increased. Even though we say granite is generally more expensive than quartz, it is not a good general ”rule of thumb.” Granite has a wide price range, whereas quartz is more narrow. Quartz slabs vary in price according to variables such as color consistency, manufacturer, brand, and demand. The average price for quartz countertops ranges from $50 to $150 per square foot.

Color Variations

Granite is typically characterized as having a combination of neutral color tones such as grays, beiges, browns and blacks. While less common, there are granites that have vibrant colors such as blue or green, and even gold or silver. These granites are extremely rare and therefore, can be more expensive than quartz (and even other granite slabs).

Unlike granite, it is more common to find these types of colors in quartz because it is an engineered stone. This means the slabs do not vary much from one another and can be manipulated in its formation process by adding certain minerals and pigments.  Although bold colors such as blues, greens and reds are not common in stone countertops or applications, they would most likely be found in quartz slabs.

Quartz countertops offer an abundance of color options, patterns and veining. They can be nearly any color and mimic any natural material, including concrete. As with other stones, depending on the type of minerals and color variation, a specific quartz slab can be more expensive than the others.

Manufacturer and Quality

If you want quality stone, it matters who it’s sourced through. Doing research on stone manufacturers and brands is essential, but often overlooked. Commercial grade stone is often sold out of department stores or found cheaper. It is poorer quality because it is softer and cut thinner than premium stone. The thickness of a stone slab is a telling sign of its quality. Premium stone is authentically harder and more durable than commercial grade.

Many stones vary in price by manufacturer or brand. Not all brands offer premium stone. There are many reputable suppliers in the Denver metro area that offer an array of top grade granite and quartz slabs whose prices reflect their quality.

Aside from its manufacturing, both granite and quartz have favorable qualities over the other, which can contribute to its price. Granite’s best quality is that it is highly heat resistant, whereas quartz is best described as being non-porous. So, it is not easily penetrated by liquids and bacteria.

The price of granite depends on the slab while the price of quartz is defined by the brand or manufacturer.

The most expensive granite slabs include:

• Blue Eyes Granite
• Blue Bahia Granite
• Blue Pearl Granite
• Van Gogh Granite
• Titanium Granite

The most expensive quartz brands include:

• Caesarstone Quartz
• Cambria Quartz
• Corian Quartz
• Hanstone Quartz

Due to all of these factors, our answer often varies when customers ask, “Is granite cheaper than quartz?” The many variables and influences on stone prices make it difficult to say for certain that one is cheaper or more expensive than the other, especially because granite and quartz prices use different metrics. Knowing exactly which granite or quartz slab to compare is the best way to reach an answer.

Granite and Marble Designs only works with premium grade stone because we believe in quality. Connect with a countertop expert who will help you decide on the type of stone that is both affordable and fits your expectations. Call (303) 551 6000 or contact us today to learn more.