Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Because of its strength and abundance, quartz is a popular and reliable choice for countertops. Quartz countertops are sometimes referred to as “engineered” or “man-made,” but quartz is in fact a natural stone. The amount of natural quartz in a slab depends on the quartz manufacturer. Cambria is among the highest concentration of pure quartz to ensure strong, compact slabs. Quartz countertops are stronger than granite countertops. Quartz countertops contain up to 93% quartz, an extremely hard mineral. Granite is composed of 40–60% quartz and other softer minerals and impurities. Granite also absorbs liquids and stains, while quartz is completely nonabsorbent. Quartz countertops are maintenance free!