Marble, Granite, Travertine and other Natural Stones
by Guest Post on Feb 4, 2010
Stones such as marble and granite are abundant in nature, but not every stone can be used for architectural purposes due to unfavorable physical and chemical characteristics. It takes geologists many years to discover one usable stone quarry. In general, natural stones fall into three categories, sedimentary, which were formed through deposition in the oceans or rivers; igneous, which is associated with lava activities, and metamorphic rocks formed when high temperature and pressure altered the mineral structures of sedimentary or igneous rocks.
Granite is a typical igneous rock formed when lava cooled down deep under the ground. Such a process contributed to the hardness and toughness of granite we see today, making granite the best candidate for applications requiring weathering proof. Limestone and sandstone are common sedimentary rocks; they will be altered to marble and slate respectively after metamorphism. In commercial applications, stones are often categorized by cut stone and carving stone. Certain marble and granite suitable for stone slab fabrications may not be used for carvings.
Travertine is a type of natural stone formed through massive calcium carbonate, CaCO3, and resulting from deposition by springs or inland rivers. Travertine is very porous but consists of very fine grains, often carries beautiful banded colors as the result of the presence of an iron compound or other impurities such as organics. Travertine stone, sometimes being called "travertine marble", "travertine limestone" or even travertine granite, is also known as calc-sinter and calcareous tufa; when used for decorative purposes, it's often referred as onyx marble and Mexican onyx. Another nickname for travertine is "Egyptian Oriental alabaster".
Travertine color has significant variations within the same slab even the same tile, but in general, it can be categorized into beige cream or yellow, gold and yellow Turkish, walnut, light white or ivory, and red travertine Turkish. Travertine can be used for building applications such as fabricating floor tiles, wall tiles, and countertops. Certain types are available for carving sinks, tables, fireplace mantel surrounds, columns, gazebos, fountains, statues, etc.
The word "Marble" in the construction and building industry has deviated from its original geological definition. Many crystallized calcite rich stones nicknamed alabasters have been categorized as "building marbles". Guizhou Cream marble stone quarried in Southern China is just an example.
In some areas, terminology of “marble”, "marble granite" or "marble stone" has been adopted to refer to "construction stone" in general. Therefore, when you are in the market for "marble" products, you may want to make sure whether you need real marbles in the geological term or you are looking for other types of natural stones in a broader sense. Marbles can be used for many architectural applications. However, we do suggest to avoid using it in certain areas. For example, as it is not very resistant to the heat, so using a kitchen marble countertop may not be an ideal choice.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
87646 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
69732 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
69064 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
47763 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
28854 Views
Latest Articles
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Exploring Crowdfunding as an Innovative Approach to Real Estate Investment
The landscape of property selling has been transformed significantly due to the advent of property crowdfunding. This innovative approach,...
on Jan 10, 2024
The Rise of Co-Living Spaces in Asian Cities
Asia, home to 21 of the worlds 30 largest cities, is a significant player in the global economy, contributing 38% of the goods and services of the...
on Jan 5, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 115
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 112
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Super Advice to Keep Your Mattress Clean and Fresh!
We spoke with a mattresses manufacturer who sells beautiful ethical Mattresses handcrafted, using natural, non-toxic materials, free of harmful...
4 Tips for Decorating your Studio Apartment
If you live in a small to medium-sized living space, you may need to get creative with decorating. It’s not uncommon to pay a great deal for a...
Heavy Equipment Maintenance and Planning
When you work with heavy machinery, then it is not uncommon to see the equipment falter or even breakdown over time.
Save Money This Winter by Rearranging Your Furniture
There are several ways you can save money on your electricity bill this winter. Some are obvious, such as scheduling maintenance, changing filters,...
How to Train Beautiful Flowering Shrubs into Unique Ornamental Trees
When the flowers finally start to appear in your garden you know spring is here. If you’re lucky you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh scents and...