Origin of Quartz Countertops

countertop

Quartz is a popular material that is used in kitchen countertop surfaces. However, the origin of quartz being used in countertops is relatively recent. Known for being a durable, scratch-resistant yet pricey mineral, quartz continues to be a favorite among many people. The history of quartz countertops is an interesting one.

 

World-wide Popularity

The usage of quartz dates back to early civilizations, many of which held quartz in high esteem. For instance, some Egyptians believed quartz could even slow down the aging process. Stone tools, which were used in prehistoric times, were often made out of quartz. As you can see, there have been many different uses for quartz throughout the years. Interestingly the Earth’s crust is full of many different minerals including quartz, which is the second most common mineral.

 

Italian Roots

An inventor, named Marcello Toncelli used a combination of quartz and resin to create slabs for countertops. He obtained a patent for the process he created, known as Bretonstone, in which he used vibrocompression under vacuum to produce a sturdy surface. The usage of quartz in countertops has only grown since he developed this process back in 1963.

 

Benefits

One of the main benefits to using quartz in the kitchen is the durability it provides. If you use quartz in your kitchen you do not have to worry about scratching the surface, as it is scratch-resistant. These countertops are carefully constructed in a factory to produce a quality product. The quartz slabs are made up of ninety percent quartz and ten percent polyester resins. Another perk to using quartz is that it is simple to clean. Simply take a warm cloth and wipe down the surface after use.

 

Quartz countertops continue to be a favorite choice when it comes to kitchen countertops. With its unmatched durability and prevalence, there is no question the mineral will remain a top contender in the years to come