We need to talk about Quartz countertops
The problem with quartz countertops nobody is talking about
Quartz countertops have become one of the most popular kitchen surfaces in the world, but behind the luxury marketing is a serious health issue affecting workers globally.
Most engineered quartz contains extremely high levels of crystalline silica, often over 90%. When these slabs are cut, polished, or fabricated, they release fine silica dust into the air. Prolonged exposure to this dust has been directly linked to silicosis - an irreversible and potentially fatal lung disease. Health authorities worldwide have issued warnings about the growing number of cases among countertop workers.
Countries like Australia have even moved to ban certain engineered stone products because of the risks associated with silica exposure.
At Velcorian, we chose a completely different path.
Our products are made from Velcorian Stone - a premium solid surface material composed of PMMA resin, natural mineral powder derived from bauxite ore, and natural pigments. Unlike quartz surfaces, Velcorian Stone does not rely on dangerous high-silica content.
That means:
- No quartz dust crisis
- No silicosis risk associated with fabrication
- Safer working environments
- Safer long-term material handling
Velcorian Stone is part of the premium solid surface materials category, with internationally recognised certifications including:
- GREENGUARD Gold
- NSF food safety certification
- Low VOC emissions
- Hygienic non-porous performance standards
The material is seamless, repairable, non-porous, and designed for healthier indoor environments.
We believe true luxury should never come at the expense of worker health.
