The Durability Test: Which is More Heat and Scratch Resistant, Granite or Quartz?

By Tudor Granite, Worktop Specialist | Updated: October 2025

When choosing a worktop, durability is key, but what does that really mean in a busy kitchen? This article is a deep dive into heat and scratch resistance, forming a key part of our complete Quartz vs. Granite comparison.

Heat Resistance: The Winner is Granite

Granite is the clear winner here. As a natural rock forged by immense heat and pressure, it can handle a hot pan placed directly on its surface without issue. While we always recommend using trivets to be safe, granite offers the best peace of mind for avid cooks.

Quartz is heat-resistant, but not heat-proof. The resins used in its construction can be damaged by sudden, extreme temperature changes (thermal shock). A very hot pan could potentially cause discoloration or a crack. Always use a trivet with quartz.

Scratch Resistance: The Winner is Quartz

Quartz is technically harder than granite. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, quartz is rated a 7, while granite falls between 6 and 7. This means quartz is more resistant to scratches from everyday kitchen use, like knives, keys, or ceramics being dragged across the surface.

Granite is still extremely scratch-resistant and will resist most daily wear and tear. However, it is slightly more susceptible to being scratched by another piece of granite or very hard materials.

The Verdict

For most kitchens, both materials are exceptionally durable. Your choice may come down to your habits:

• If you're a passionate chef who often moves hot pans around, granite's superior heat resistance might be the deciding factor.
• If you have a busy family and are more concerned about everyday scratches and scuffs, quartz's superior hardness offers a slight edge.