Color
Quartz is very consistent in pattern and color. Some color variation can occur from slab to slab but it is generally not noticeable. Color samples are accurate in color and pattern making countertop selections.

Stain
Quartz is a non porous materials that are highly stain resistant and do not require sealing. However stains can occur under extreme conditions. Quartz does not require any sealing or resealing.

Sheen
Quartz products primarily come in a high gloss finish but in some colors a leather or honed finish is available. Maintenance is similar for either finish. Quartz has an extremely smooth texture with little or no variation. It does not have any pitting.

Heat
Highly heat resistant and generally will not burn or discolor due to normal use. However, thermal shock can occur due to sudden temperature changes or constant exposure to concentrated heat sources (i.e. electric fry pans, toaster oven, crock pots). In these cases a trivet must always be used.

Scratch
Quartz is much stronger and more flexible than natural stone and is therefore less likely to crack or chip. This strength and lack of internal fissures make for counters that are very unlikely to have cracking and chipping issues. Quartz is perhaps the hardest of countertop materials and is very resistant to scratching, however a cutting board should always be used for cutting and chopping. Repairs can be done and are usually less noticeable than in natural stone (quality of repair dependant upon the size of area and on color & pattern of material).

Seams
Seams are visible to varying degrees depending upon the color.