Marble is a recrystallized limestone that formed when the limestone softened from heat and pressure and recrystallized into marble where mineral changes occurred. The main consistency is calcium and dolomite. Ranges in many colors and is usually heavily veined and shows lots of grains. Hardness rates from 2.5 to 5 on the MOH Scale. More or less crystallized by metamorphism, Marble ranges from granular to compact in texture, is capable of taking high polish, and is used especially in architecture and sculpture (as hardness, coldness, or smoothness).

Marble is classified into three categories: (Stone World)

    1. Dolomite: If it has more than 40% magnesium carbonate.

    2. Magnesian: If it has between 5% and 40% magnesium carbonate.

    3. Calcite: If it has less than 5% magnesium carbonate.

Typical finishes for marbles are:

    Polished: glossy surface, which brings out the full color and character of the marble; it is not generally recommended for exterior use, or commercial floors.

    Honed: satin smooth surface with little or no gloss; recommended for residential and commercial floors.

    Abrasive: a non-reflective surface, usually recommended for exterior use.

Other Finishes:

    Sand Blasted: matte textured surface finish with no gloss; finished by application of a steady flow of sand and water pleasure.

    Bush-Hammered: a mechanical process which produces textured surface; textures vary from subtle to rough.

A Note on Color Shade

Marble is a product of nature. It is not possible to guarantee that all the color and markings on a large Marble deposit will be present in every tile, nor that every characteristic of a tile will be uniformly present in other tiles. A tile sample serves only to indicate in a general way the color, markings, and texture usually found in this type of marble. Before installing, lay Marble tile out for best distribution of variation. Claims for shade variation cannot be allowed after installation. Marble is a beautiful and practical product for a building finish. No two installations will ever be identical because of Marble's characteristics and unique appearance.

Precautions for Marble:

    Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

    Do not use cleaning products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids.

    Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface.

    Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and placemats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that can scratch the surface.