Calacatta Quartz is a famous type of marble that can be recognized by its thick grey or gold veining patterns/design.

Extracted from Tuscany and named after the city of Calcutta in India, this worktop is customized with utmost durability, stain resistance, and scratch resistance. They are surface safe for food and very useful in extremely active kitchens where a lot of cooking takes place. Despite the statin-resistant property, it should be handled with great care. Whether your home is a traditional or modern one, quartz is an ideal option. Quartz stones are similar to marbles and granite, having features of both pertaining to attractiveness while being even more durable.

Quartz Countertop Features

• Stain resistant; the non-porous surface of quartz does not permit the penetration of even the most persistent liquids. This feature results in a stainless effect. Resins present give a sealing effect, forming a sleek look that is impossible to get stained, meanwhile, the possibility is much higher with natural stones as they require sealing and do not offer as much stain-resistant effect.

• Bacteria resistant

• Multipurpose; whether you intend on using it in your hallway, in your kitchen, or bathroom as a countertop, quartz is perfect for quite a number of indoor uses/ interior decor trends.

• Durability and sturdiness are key features as quartz has the ability to handle pressure with high force without the risk of being cracked or broken.

• Easily budgetable; it is more affordable than other stones like marble and granite which are competitive alternatives.

• Attractive; why use either granite or marble when quartz brings the best of both worlds right into your home with even better advantages? It imitates its competitive stones so well, that it is barely easy to tell the difference; this is due to the fact that it is made with 93% natural quartz and 7% resin pigments.

• Warranty; quartz is customized with a warranty of ten years although with proper care and maintenance it is sure to last way longer than this period.

• Resistance to cuts; it is highly scratch-resistant and chip-resistant due to very dense materials. Although cutting directly on this surface barely affects it, it is not advisable. Use of chop boards should be employed.

• Luxurious; quartz provides a rich aesthetic view of the environment it is being employed in. Several public institutions utilize it on hallways with the color blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

• Low maintenance; with barely any need of sealing unlike most other stones and simply just wiping across it with soap and water, Calcutta Quartz is quite easy to handle and maintain.

• Quartz is an engineered stone compared to natural alternatives like granite and marble.

• Heat conduction; just like granite and marble, quartz has a high resistance to high temperatures which is why they are perfect for kitchen countertops. The risk of cracking, breaking, or melting is canceled.

• Unlimited design options; unlike natural stones, there is a variety of sleek designs with several pigment colors. They can be customized to fit different cabinet materials, colors and flooring.

Disadvantages/draw-backs

• Difficult Installation; quartz countertops are not do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. Due to weight ranging between twenty to twenty-five pounds per square foot, installation is a challenging task.
• Made only for indoor use; discoloration occurs following exposure to direct sunlight as the UV rays of the sun fade the pigments; this makes quartz unsuitable for outdoor use.
• Price; customization comes with its cost as desired quartz may not be attainable if you are on a tight budget.
• Size limitations

Maintenance and Care

Quartz countertops may be resistant to scratches but they are not a hundred percent scratch-proof. Avoid cutting directly and make use of chop boards.

• Do not use sharp objects around them.
• Avoid the use of permanent markers 
• Only clean with damp cotton material, mild soap, and water
• Avoid the use of bleach
• Wipe off spills immediately to avoid them drying up and causing marks
• Avoid the use of high pH cleaners which can cause discoloration
• Avoid contact with cooking grease
• Keep chemicals away
• Make use of trivets when setting down hot cooking equipment because while quartz may be resistant to heat, constant exposure should be avoided.
• Keep your vinegar diluted if you must use it for cleaning (i.e. 75% water and 25% vinegar)
• Alcohol mixed with mild dish soap and warm water helps to get rid of tough stains
• Daily cleaning of countertops is necessary
• Refinish the countertops
• Get rid of food residues
• Thoroughly rinse countertops
• Wipe off the water with a clean dry cloth
• Disinfect countertop surfaces
• Wring cleaning rag periodically in freshwater. 
• Do not use baking soda for cleaning slabs, tiles, and natural stones
• Use of cleaning agents that are pH-neutral
• Avoid the use of steam cleaners which could decrease stain resistance, damage the surface and cause metallic elements to corrode.
• Stone floors should be swept or vacuumed.
• Allow stone floors to air dry 

Cleaning and Maintenance materials

• Spray bottles
• Cotton rags
• Mild soap
• Paper towels
• Disinfectant; 70% isopropyl alcohol
• Microfiber towels
• Stone cleaners
• Stone polish and sealer
• Etch and watermark removers
• Countertop reseal kit
• Polish kit
• Rust and maintenance kit
• Restoration kit

Technical Information / Requirements

• Cutouts ; 

1. minimum of 50mm for sink cutouts.
2. 120mm between two hobs cut-outs.
3. 100mm between the sink and hob cut-outs.
4. 70mm between two sink cutouts.

• Thermal expansion; up to 1mm per meter.

• Veining; seaming of two sheets or two pieces likely does not allow a continuous flow of the pattern. Change of pattern is visible on seamed areas.

• Support; overhangs extending 30mm should be aided. Carcasses should have a spacing of 600mm.

• Upstands; less than 100mm high is too fragile

• Height; 10 feet (3m) – 12 feet (3.5m)

Calacatta Quartz Slab

A slab of Calcutta is 3220 × 1620 and half of the slab (3220× 810) can be used for bathtub surroundings, counters, and islands. A slab is about 47 square feet. Roughly, half the slab is just about 24 square feet.

Calacatta Quartz information list

1. Color: cream and beige
2. Material: Quartz
3. Style: Veined 
4. Surface: Honed/ polished
5. Sheet thickness: 13mm /20mm/30mm
6. Non-neutral/ sensitive colors: None
7. Family: Supernatural
8. Variations : limited/ low
9. Sizes : 2cm -3cm
10. Slab: 47 square feet
11. Tile lines: $99 per square ft
12. boulder granite: $115 per square ft

Ten Calacatta Quartz types

1. Calacatta White Quartz
2. Calacatta Laza Quartz
3. Calacatta Botanica Quartz
4. Calacatta Venice Quartz
5. Calacatta Roma Quartz
6. Bianco Calacatta Quartz
7. Calacatta Classic Quartz
8. Calacatta Neon Quartz
9. Calacatta Verona Quartz
10. Calacatta Vicenza Quartz

Calacatta White Quartz

Possesses a bright and brilliant white background with veining patterns that are strikingly obvious. Its color gives it a natural marble look.

Calacatta Laza Quartz

This has dramatic brown veining patterns on a cream-colored/milky white background. Fits perfectly in settings that are modern or classic.

 Calacatta Botanica Quartz

The background has a soft white color and the veining patterns are gray. This can be used in combination with various colors and designs.

Calacatta Venice Quartz

Warm white background with veining patterns that are thicker than most other types. The Combinations keep the surroundings neutral and seemingly luxurious.

Calacatta Roma Quartz

Originating from Germany, Italy, and Portugal, this calacatta type has a characteristic white background and grey stripes. It is most commonly used and suitable for kitchen countertops and although calacatta quartz has been listed to be suitable for creating a focal point on fireplaces, this particular type is not recommended.

Bianco Calacatta Quartz

This type has thick, warm and brown veining patterns surrounded by a creamy white background. It features extreme hardness which contributes to its extra durability.

Calacatta Classic Quartz

Possesses a uniform grey veining pattern in a neutrally white background which has quite a translucent look and unlike other types has no dramatic tone to it.

Calacatta Leon Quartz

The grey patterns of this type are dramatic and contrasting. Due to how easy it is to maintain and care for it, can fit almost anywhere; dining rooms, bathrooms, kitchen countertops, floors, etc 

Calacatta Verona Quartz

Similar to the others it has the same white background but with more subtle veining patterns alongside heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and germ-resistant features. It is a great choice for countertops.

Calacatta Vicenza Quartz

The availability of Calacatta Vicenza slabs is typically in 2cm and 3cm. This has light white background and grey veining and serves as a great fit for traditional homes.

Manufacturers 

Calacatta Quartz is by Solarstone

They have been leading the quartz industry since 2014 after the manufacture and release of the first Calacatta Marble design. These providers for applications used commercially and residentially are recognized original innovators listed amongst the top eight Quartz countertop brands. The production of Marble designs which took several years to develop was influenced by the goal of creating fine, well-represented natural designs that would be available for the quartz industry’s market. They are responsible for turning the focus of the industry away from granite as quartz industries were only focused on granite designs. 

Their collections include:

• Calacatta Vagli
• Calacatta Borghi
• Blanco Crystal
• Cascade
• Castillo gray
• Ibiza
• Montclair Imperial
• Kalahari
• Opal Marquette
• Olympia
• Statuario Milan
• Pietra Danae
• Chocolate Concrete
• Yukon
• White Concrete
• Grey Concrete

Uses of Calacatta Marble Quartz

Calacatta quartzes are utilized for the following: 

• Kitchen Countertops
• Table tops for boardrooms
• Flooring
• Vertical covering (backsplash)
• Focal points. Example; fireplace

Calacatta Marble Care

• Use of etching remover to get rid of marble etching (i.e. discolorations caused by acidic substances)

• For sealing, make use of premium marble sealers

• Use pH-neutral cleaners designed for calacatta marbles, this is because the slightest acidity will affect the marble

• Use of Marble fortified Polish

Types of Calacatta Marbles

• Calacatta Extra; the veining patterns are larger and appear randomly. It is perfect for benchtops.

• Calacatta Borghini; this particular type possesses the most colors with veining patterns portraying shades of gold and blue. It is just the right option for boutiques and hotels and is suitable for floors as well as countertops.

• Calacatta Michelangelo; provides a sophisticated look with brilliant white color.

• Calacatta Gold; this type is more expensive. Despite the name, it lacks gold veining patterns and colors. It is usually put to use in designer kitchens and bathrooms.

• Calacatta Oro; as opposed to the patterns of Calacatta gold, this type has a splendid and significant natural gold touch.

Calacatta Quartz Price

Generally, the price of quartz countertops is between the ranges of $50 and $150 per square foot making the average cost $75 per square foot. However, the actual and total cost depends on quartz quality, manufacturer, type of edging, preferred style or design, number of slabs, number of finishes, and cutouts.

Calacatta Quartz and Carrara Quartz

While both include natural marble design and veining, calacatta features bolder, wider, and darker veining patterns which contrast with the disappearing veining patterns of the Carrara Quartz. 

Types of Calacatta and Carrara Quartz

• Calacatta Nuvo by Caeserstone
• Calacatta Ultra Quartz
• Calacatta Marmi Quartz by MSI Surfaces 
• Calacatta Classique by MSI Surfaces
• Carrara Grigio Quartz by MSI Surfaces
• Carrara Marmi Quartz by MSI Surfaces
• Carrara Caldia Quartz by MSI Surfaces
• Calacatta Trevi by MSI Surfaces
• Cashmere Carrara Quartz
• Calacatta Metro Quartz 

Calacatta Ultra Quartz by MSI Surfaces

This is possibly one Calcutta Quartz with the purest background and it is never out of style. It evokes the natural beauty of marble and It is traced with delicate and soft veining. It comes with regular stain-resistant, chip-resistant, durability, and heat-resistant properties.

Calacatta Trevi by MSI Surfaces

With a warm, subtle, and soft white background and veining that is refined, it is the most sought calacatta quartz slab which imitates the lavish nature of traditional Italian marble.

Calacatta Metro Quartz

Combined with white/grey mosaic vertical covering, stainless steel appliances, and off-white cabinets.

Calacatta Nuvo by Caeserstone

This directly mimics the feel and physical appearance of real marble with magnificent grey veining.

Calacatta Classique Quartz by MSI Surfaces

Luxurious, clean, and impressive are three simple ways of describing this masterpiece with possession of through-body veins and immaculate and unsullied background. It comes with slabs of about 2cm-3cm.

Cashmere Carrara Quartz

Stunning, delicate, airy, and highly refined are basic descriptive terms attached to this quartz. Just like the others, it is resistant to heat, stains, cracks, and even bacteria.

Carrara Grigio Quartz by MSI Surfaces

The soft grey veining patterns are thicker with an incredibly unique white background

Carrara Marmi Quartz by MSI Surfaces

This features white, grey, or very light backgrounds. The veining system also differs distinctively from the Cashmere Carrara.

Carrara Caldia Quartz by MSI Surfaces

Features smooth golden veining patterns with a creamy grey background which provides a sophisticated, rich, and luxurious feel. 

Calacatta Marmi Quartz by MSI Surfaces

The veining patterns of this quartz are simply bolder and more obvious than Carrara Marmi Quartz

Reliable Design Guide

Deciding on an exact type, pattern, or make of countertops can be very tasking so here is a list of things to consider that serve as a guide up until your final decision.

• Countertops customized with heat-resistant properties
• Countertops customized with stain-resistant features
• Preference in relation to beauty and what you intend to display
• Budget; you should consider the cost you are willing to work with. Granite countertop’s cost range from about $39.99 per installed square foot to $49.99 – $54.99 per square foot. More luxurious options could range from $64.99 to $84.99. The overall range of countertops is $40-$100 per installed square foot.
• Benefits and drawbacks; detailed Information and the advantages /benefits and downsides of each countertop will enable you to decide the option to go for .
• Comparison and elimination; consider options best suitable to you, list them, and compare and apply elimination methods to cross out the least preferable ones until you’re down to one option.
• Design your new layout
• Consider durability and maintenance requirements
• Kitchen countertop materials

Countertop Materials

• Granite
• Copper
• Terrazzo
• Stainless steel
• Aluminum
• Concrete
• Pigments
• Resin
• Polymer
• Hardwood
• Maple

Quartz Stone Trends 

Neutral colors; the use of muted tones are popular trends in the use of quartz. These colors include beige, cream, and taupe with their variations. These color tones have a way of enlarging space and it is easy to blend with.

Dark colors; include colors like grey and black which have been significant contemporary styles for many years. They are often combined with lightly toned cabinets.

Non-neutral color; most commonly used in this category is blue which tends to have a neutral undertone when properly combined with other colors.

Other Countertop Options include;

• Granite countertops; premium selection consists of about two hundred and fifty color patterns. Collections are affordable, trendy, luxurious, and irresistibly pleasant.

• Marble countertops; consist of fifty color patterns and design options. They are one of the most sought kitchen countertops

• Quartzite countertops; feature highly decorative and visibly reflective 

• Soapstone countertops; this is not as common as granite and quartz countertops. Usually, it comes in various shades of grey, particularly dark grey. It can also be used in both traditional and modern homes. They create a marvelous antique look. Although It is not resistant to cuts, scratches, and some stains (just fairly), the stains or scratches can be easily sanded out.

• Butcher block countertops, majorly made of hardwood and maple, provide a warm and homely feeling. They are not water resistant and should not be used as a countertop for sink areas as they can be easily damaged by water. It is easy to repair, install, reseal, and sand but is fairly easy to maintain with frequent sealing and oiling. Poor maintenance could decrease bacteria resistance features.

• Concrete Countertops; provide an industrial look, finished, formed, textured, stained, and pigmented with various color shades. Stones and tiles are possibly inserted within. It is durable and heat resistant. Although susceptible to cracks, they can easily be fixed. Shape and size are easily customized. These countertops can only be Installation and repaired can only be done by professionals. The materials used are expensive. They are barely stain-resistant since spilled liquids tend to leave obvious markings. They also require sealing often.

• Laminate Countertops; can be employed for budget-tight remodeling. They are arguably the cheapest and come in various colors and design patterns. Surfaces are synthetically coated with plastic. They are made of laminate sheets. They are easy to install (i.e DIY friendly), resistant to stains and heat, and easy to maintain and care for. If cut directly into, it could result in damage which is why the use of chop boards is advisable. Seams are impossible to hide and damages cannot be repaired.

Marble Slabs

The average cost of marble slab countertops is $60. With the range being $40-$100 per square foot. Generally, transportation, installation, location, materials, design, and styles affect cost.

 Specific marble types and their costs include; 

Calacatta – $180

Danby – $80

Statuario – $50

Carrara – $40

Despite the belief that quartz is a hundred percent man-made, it is a natural mineral with an abundant composition of oxygen and silicone. Basically, quartz is natural but countertops made out of it are engineered by grinding Quartz into dust and mixing/combining it with other natural and synthetic materials which include resins, pigments and polymers, recycled glass, and metal flecks.

The essence of resins and polymers is for the binding of quartz, creating a solidified unit that is hard and durable. The pigments added are meant for countertop coloration.

“Calacatta” is a word with synonyms including luxury, drama, and elegance. The color range includes beige, creamy, tanned brown, and grey. It is a type of white marble.

Calacatta Marble Quartzes are unique distinctive designs engineered purposely for the creation of something more durable. The designs and veining patterns tend to give off a dramatic character that easily blends with the environment. Like other natural stones, they require the best care to retain beauty and durability.