Reviewed by Clarrie King, licensed stonemason · Premier Stone, Drouin VIC · Updated June 2026
The key thing to know: quartzite and granite are natural stones and fully legal, while engineered “quartz” stone has been banned in Australia since 1 July 2024. Among the legal options, quartzite (~7 Mohs) often gives softer, marble-like looks and granite (~6 to 7 Mohs) gives bolder patterns; both are hard, heat resistant and need periodic sealing. There’s no single winner. It comes down to the look and the slab.
The names cause real confusion, especially since the engineered stone ban. This guide clears it up and helps you choose between the two natural stones still on the table.
Comparing stones in Melbourne’s south-east? Premier Stone supplies and fabricates quartzite and granite from our Drouin workshop. See our benchtop services → or call 1300 282 065.
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Quartzite vs quartz: not the same thing
This is the big one. Quartzite is a natural stone quarried from the ground. Quartz, in benchtop terms, meant engineered stone, crushed quartz bound with resin, which is now banned in Australia because cutting its high silica content caused silicosis in workers. So “quartz benchtops” are no longer an option, while quartzite remains a premium natural choice. If you wanted the low-maintenance feel of quartz, porcelain is the closest legal replacement.
Quartzite vs granite: side by side
| Factor | Quartzite | Granite | Quartz (engineered) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Natural stone | Natural stone | Banned in AU |
| Hardness | ~7 Mohs | ~6. 7 Mohs | n/a |
| Look | Often marble-like | Bold, speckled or flowing | n/a |
| Maintenance | Periodic sealing | Reseal 12. 18 mths | n/a |
So which wins?
Between the two legal natural stones, it’s a tie decided by taste: choose quartzite for soft, marble-like elegance (like Taj Mahal), granite for bold character and value. Both are hard, heat tolerant and need sealing. If you specifically miss engineered quartz’s zero-maintenance feel, porcelain is your modern, legal answer. The real winner is the slab you fall in love with. See it in person before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between quartzite and quartz?
Quartzite is a natural stone quarried from the ground. Quartz (engineered stone) was crushed quartz bound with resin. Quartzite is natural and legal; engineered quartz stone has been banned in Australia since 1 July 2024.
Is quartzite better than granite?
Both are excellent. Quartzite (~7 Mohs) often gives marble-like looks; granite (~6 to 7) gives bolder patterns. Both are hard, heat resistant and need sealing. The choice is mostly appearance and the specific slab.
Can you still buy quartz benchtops in Australia?
No. Engineered quartz stone has been banned since 1 July 2024 due to the silicosis risk. Porcelain (sintered stone) is the closest legal alternative; quartzite and granite were never affected.
Which is the most heat resistant?
Quartzite and granite are both very heat resistant; trivets still protect sealers. Porcelain, the replacement for banned quartz, is the most heat resistant and takes a hot pot straight from the cooktop.
Do quartzite and granite need sealing?
Yes, both should be sealed periodically and resealed when a water-drop test stops beading, typically every 12 to 18 months. Dense, dark stones often need it less often.
More guides from Premier Stone:
- Engineered Stone After the Ban: What’s Legal in 2026
- Taj Mahal Quartzite Benchtops
- Granite Kitchen Benchtops: A Melbourne Buyer’s Guide
- Stone Benchtops Melbourne: Prices and Free Quote
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