At Nu World Custom Lighting and Design, we’ve worked with just about every translucent material out there. But two of the most popular for backlighting projects are Quartzite and Onyx — both stunning, both unique, but very different when it comes to how they react to light. Whether you’re designing a statement kitchen island, a bar front, or a luxury wall feature, knowing the differences between these two materials can help you plan your lighting installation with confidence.
Quartzite vs. Onyx: Material Structure
Onyx is a calcite-based stone known for its soft, smooth veining and high translucency. It typically transmits light evenly and is one of the easiest materials to backlight with no spacer layer required in many cases.
Quartzite, on the other hand, is a much harder, more crystalline material. Some types — like Cristallo Quartzite — are beautifully translucent, but may require more precise lighting and diffusion techniques to eliminate hot spots or seams.
Light Diffusion Requirements
- Onyx: Often allows for direct placement of the stone onto the LED panel. The veining and natural variation in the material help hide LED edges and diffusion issues.
- Quartzite: Frequently requires a ½” to 1″ clear acrylic spacer and sometimes a 1/16″ white diffusion layer (e.g., Plexiglas 7328) to properly blend light and avoid seams between LED panels.
Durability & Handling
- Quartzite is much harder and more durable than Onyx, which makes it a better choice for countertops and high-traffic areas. However, its increased weight and density can make handling and backlighting more challenging.
- Onyx is softer and more fragile — better suited for vertical installations or decorative surfaces where impact is minimal.
When to Use What
- Choose Onyx when you want a dramatic, glowing look with minimal layering or installation complexity.
- Choose Quartzite when durability is key — and be prepared to use a layered installation method for best lighting results.
We Ship Across the U.S.
No matter where your project is located, we ship our custom-built LED panels across the United States — from New York and Miami to Los Angeles, Dallas, Phoenix, and Chicago. Every panel is custom manufactured to your dimensions, and we’ll help walk you through the ideal layering strategy for your chosen stone — whether that’s Onyx, Quartzite, or something else entirely.
Need Help Planning Your Project?
Send us your drawings, sketches, or even a photo of your slab. We’ll review your needs and provide personalized recommendations for lighting, layering, and installation. With over 15 years of experience, we’re here to simplify the process — not overcomplicate it.
Ready to get started? Contact us today.
