Granite VS Quartz -

Granite and quartz countertops are both excellent choices for durable and aesthetically pleasing surfaces, but they have distinct characteristics due to their composition and creation process. Here's a detailed comparison:

Material Origin:

Granite is a 100% natural stone quarried directly from the earth. It is cut into slabs, polished, and sealed before use in homes as countertops.
Quartz countertops, although they are referred to as "quartz," are actually engineered stone products. They're manufactured from around 90-95% ground natural quartz and 5-10% polymer resins and color pigments.
Appearance:

Granite offers a very natural look and can be found in many colors and patterns due to the way it’s formed (cooling and solidifying of molten materials). Since granite is a natural stone, no two granite slabs are exactly alike, which means each countertop is unique.
Quartz provides a more uniform look and finish. It's available in a wide range of colors and patterns, and the appearance is controlled during the manufacturing process. This allows buyers to know more precisely what they're getting in terms of aesthetics.
Durability and Maintenance:

Granite is hard and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, but it's porous. It requires sealing upon installation and periodic resealing to prevent staining and bacteria growth.
Quartz is extremely tough and equally resistant to heat and scratches, and it's also non-porous, which makes it highly resistant to staining and bacterial growth without the need for sealing.
Environmental Impact:

Granite countertops require quarrying, which involves significant energy and can significantly impact the environment. The slabs also need to be transported over potentially long distances.
Quartz is engineered and can be more eco-friendly in terms of shipping and processing. However, the manufacturing process is energy-intensive, and the inclusion of resins means it's not a fully natural product.
Cost:

Granite can be less expensive than quartz depending on the type you select. However, rare granite types can be quite costly.
Quartz tends to be more consistent in price and can be on the higher end, reflecting its uniformity and the technology used in its creation.
Repair and Resilience:

Granite can crack under extreme pressure or in an accident, and repairing it is a bit challenging because it's hard to match the natural veining and color.
Quartz is more flexible and can be easier to repair. Its uniformity in color and pattern makes it easier to replace a section without it being noticeable.
In summary, the choice between granite and quartz will often come down to personal preference regarding appearance, maintenance, and sustainability considerations. Both materials are durable, but they offer different looks and maintenance needs. Granite offers a unique, natural aesthetic with a bit more required upkeep, while quartz offers a more uniform, modern look with easier maintenance.