The latest trend in quartz countertop design is the surge of Calacatta quartz options. This has led to many questions: What does Calacatta mean? Is it Calacatta, Calcatta, Calcuta, or something else? What is the difference between the various Calacatta styles? Which one is the best?
Calacatta marble is rarer than Carrara marble and is known for its thick, bold greyish veins. Since it is rare, it is also more expensive. Some Calacatta slabs can cost thousands of dollars more than their Carrara cousins. Calacatta Quartz is designed to mimic the most expensive styles of Calacatta Marble.
The Calacatta Nuvo by Caesarstone (pictured above) is one of many styles of Calacatta Quartz. Some have an off-white or creamy white base while others have a more pronounced gold lining in the veining.
Calacatta Quartz is generally more expensive than most other patterns available. The primary reason for the higher cost is the intricate molds and additional time required to create the veining. Manufacturing solid or less uniform patterns is much easier and cheaper. While there are more affordable brands and options increasingly available, we recommend sticking to a reputable brand for any white quartz. This ensures you avoid countertops filled with resin and prone to staining. The higher-priced Calacatta options also offer a brighter white and better polish, which enhances the veining in the stone.
Before choosing which style of quartz to go with, it's essential to consider several variables. Here are some advantages of selecting a Calacatta style:
- Versatility: White and grey colors work well with a variety of cabinet, paint, and decor themes, making it hard to go wrong.
- Backsplash: Calacatta quartz is an excellent material for matching and flowing into your kitchen backsplash. For the best results, determine if bookmatched slabs are required and available.
- Waterfalls: Extending the countertop down a waterfall edge is a growing trend, and Calacatta quartz makes this look stunning by continuing the veining seamlessly.
- Timelessness: The Calacatta trend is still in its early days and is likely to remain popular for the foreseeable future. It is highly unlikely that it will go out of style anytime soon.
- Investment: The versatility, aesthetics, and timeless appeal of Calacatta Quartz make it a worthwhile investment. Despite its higher cost compared to other patterns, the benefits justify the price difference.
Choosing Calacatta Quartz for your kitchen can enhance its look and add long-term value to your home.
We typically advise against investing in Calacatta quartz countertops when working with a very narrow surface or small countertop. The veining will end shortly after it begins, preventing you from achieving the full visual impact that Calacatta can offer in larger projects with waterfalls, backsplashes, or large islands.
Overall, Calacatta quartz is a great choice in most cases. It allows you to achieve the look of rare marble without breaking the bank. Being quartz instead of marble, it is also much easier to maintain, non-porous, and doesn't require sealing like natural stone.
Call us today to see if Calacatta Quartz is a good choice for your home.