By Joey Lewitin

Marble is one of most sophisticated of stones. It is generally smooth and polished, although it can come in a rough texture. Its use historically is very widespread in both art and architecture.

Formation

Marble is a kind of limestone that has undergone a process which has made structure of rock more solid. This process allows stone to take a high polish. This stone is generally formed when limestone is faced with extremes of pressure or temperature that cause it to undergo a process known as metamorphism. When Metamorphism occurs structure of limestone becomes crystal in nature, transforming into calcite or dolomite. These two substances are main materials in marble. The crystal is a very strong molecular form and result of this is a stronger, highly polish-able stone, with unique coloring characteristics often known as Marbling.

Limestone is one of most versatile stones available. In its pure form it is hard enough to be used in almost any application, however it is relatively soft compared to other building stones such as marble.

Limestone Variations

Forms of limestone include chalk (a much softer version), and marl (a type of fertilizer). Travertine is also a limestone, though harder. Travertine is often found in stalactite and stalagmites that have formed in caves.

Formation

Limestone is chiefly composed of calcium carbonate. It is a sedimentary rock, which means that it is formed by collection of other minerals coming together to bond at a structural level. This most commonly occurs when lime builds up in oceans, then washes ashore and dries out.

Colors