Quartzite
Riviera (Brazilian)
Brazil
Quartzite
Azul Macaubas
Brazil (Minas Gerais — Macaúbas)
ASTM C616Food-Contact EligibleEtch ResistantScratch ResistantHeat ResistantFrost ResistantExterior-GradeVerified Quartzite
Azul Macaubas
Photo coming soon
HardnessVery Hard(7–8 Mohs)
SoftHard
Acid SensitivityAcid Safe
SafeHigh Risk
Verify Before You Buy
Slab Yard Diagnostic Protocol
Quartzite is widely mislabeled in the trade — slabs sold as quartzite are sometimes dolomitic marble (e.g., Super White) or hybrid marble/quartzite layers (e.g., Fantasy Brown). Before you commit, run two quick tests from your Stone ID Kit to confirm the slab is genuine quartzite.
From your Stone ID Kit
Glass tileHCl dropper bottle (5–10%)Knife or steel scribeMagnifier
The full step-by-step protocol — including expected results and red flags — is included in your downloadable Buyer's Guide.
Stone TypeQuartzite
Geological NameQuartzite
OriginBrazil (Minas Gerais — Macaúbas)
ASTM SpecificationASTM C616
ClassificationDense Crystalline / Siliceous
Available FinishesPolished, Honed (Matte), Leathered, Brushed
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Sealing Is Essential
Azul Macaubas is one of the more porous quartzites on the market. Unlike dense quartzites that resist staining easily, this stone can absorb moisture and oils readily if not properly sealed. It requires a premium impregnating sealer applied before use and resealed every 6–12 months in kitchen applications. Perform a water drop test on your specific slab — if water darkens the surface within 1–3 minutes, this confirms the need for diligent sealing.
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Resin Fill — UV Yellowing Risk
Azul Macaubas is typically filled with polyester resin during processing to stabilize micro-fractures and enhance appearance. This resin can yellow over time when exposed to direct sunlight or UV light. This yellowing is irreversible and most noticeable on white, light-colored, and blue stones. For areas with direct sun exposure (near windows, outdoor kitchens, sunrooms), discuss UV-stable epoxy resin options with your fabricator, or consider placement away from prolonged direct sunlight. Ask your supplier whether the slab uses polyester or UV-stable epoxy resin.
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Porous Quartzite — Seal Before Use
Azul Macaubas is one of the more porous quartzites on the market. It can absorb moisture, oils, and adhesive chemicals readily if not properly sealed. Do not assume "quartzite = bulletproof" with this stone. Seal with a premium impregnating sealer BEFORE installation and plan to reseal every 6–12 months in kitchen use. In wet applications (showers, outdoor), use a high-quality impregnating sealer and plan for more frequent resealing. Using the wrong adhesive during fabrication can cause permanent darkening along seams — insist your fabricator seals all cut edges before applying any adhesive.
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Adhesive Seam Staining Risk
Azul Macaubas is susceptible to oil absorption from fabrication adhesives. Standard color-matched epoxy used for seams and repairs can leach oils into the stone, causing dark staining along seam lines and edges that may be permanent. BEFORE FABRICATION: Insist your fabricator seals all cut edges and the underside of seam areas with impregnating sealer BEFORE applying any adhesive. Use a high-quality, non-staining adhesive specifically rated for porous natural stone. This is critical — once adhesive oil migrates into the stone, it is extremely difficult or impossible to remove.
From the same quarry family
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MB Stone I.D. Kit — Test Your Stone
Not sure what stone you have? This kit includes the tools professionals use to identify stone type, test acid sensitivity, check absorption, and determine the right care products.
Shop Stone I.D. Kit — $139.97HardnessVery Hard(7–8 Mohs)
SoftHard
Acid SensitivityAcid Safe
SafeHigh Risk
LOW — siliceous; does NOT etch
🔥Heat Tolerance
>480°F
💧Sealer
Yes (impregnator)
Technical Details
ASTM SpecificationASTM C616
Mohs Hardness7–8
Absorption0.05–0.40%
Density (pcf)150–170
Compressive Strength (psi)10,000–30,000+
Flexural Strength (psi)N/A
Abrasion Resistance (Ha)8–25+
Thermal Tolerance>480°F
ClassificationDense Crystalline / Siliceous
Geological NameQuartzite
OriginBrazil (Minas Gerais — Macaúbas)
Where can you use Azul Macaubas?
Tap an application to see the full recommendation.
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Interior
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Exterior
Recommended Conditional Not Recommended
Care Instructions
Maintenance recommendations for Azul Macaubas
🧹 Daily Cleaning
- Wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth or microfiber towel
- Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner — never use acidic or abrasive products
💧 Sealing Schedule
- Sealer type: Yes (impregnator)
- Seal every 1–2 years for normal residential use
- Test with water drops — if absorption occurs within 10 minutes, it's time to reseal
- Always clean the surface thoroughly before applying sealer
- Allow sealer to cure fully before using the surface (typically 24 hours)
⚠️ Warning Signs — Time to Call a Pro
- Dull spots or rings where liquids have sat on the surface
- Visible cracks, chips, or separating seams
- Discoloration or staining that won't clean away
- Surface feels rough or gritty in areas that were previously smooth
- Grout deterioration around the stone edges
🛒 Recommended Products
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pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner
For daily cleaning. Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners.
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Impregnating Sealer
Penetrates the stone to protect from within. Apply annually.
Need professional help?
Get a free consultation from Sureshine’s stone care experts.
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