One of the most popular stones to be placed within the modern home is marble, these emerging most commonly in the form of marble countertops, usually in the bathroom. Marble has an exciting history in science and in décor. We will examine both, travelling back in time to make you a veritable expert on all things marble.
Marble, a non-foliated metamorphic rock is composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals (calcite and dolomite most frequently) is a form of metamorphosed limestone. Throughout the ages it has been plundered for use in sculpture and as a building material.
White marble comes as a result of the metamorphism of a limestone or dolomite rock. The swirls and veins of multi-hued marbles are due to mineral contaminants (clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert) that were in attendance as grains or layers within the limestone or dolomite. Green marbles are the end product of large amounts of magnesium in the limestone or dolomite. Moved and reformed over eons by pressure and heat, we have a wide array marble.
The word marble comes from the Greek, loosely translating to “shining rock” or “crystalline stone”. Marble was the choice for Greek and Roman sculptors and architects, so much so that it has become a cultural symbol of tradition and refined taste. The wide variety and patterns of color make it a favorite decorative material.
Renowned for its pure beauty, white marble has been a top choice for sculptures since ancient eras. White marble is very soft and therefore malleable, boasts relative uniformity, and stays intact under stress . A low refraction rate, light penetrate through the surface and scatters out, creating its effervescence, making sculpted pieces look “alive”.
Marble has been widely used in construction as well. Construction marble tends to be composed of calcite, dolomite or serpentine (green marble type)—all of which can be polished. These types of marbles are usually of crystalline calcitic rock varieties and are particularly useful as building stone.
Typically specified for use in baths and as fireplace surrounds due to its relative softness, marble is not suitable for kitchens as it does scratch and chip easier than granite, quartz and other stone types. The patina marble develops over time gives it an old or ancient world kind of feel.
Are you interested in learning more about marble countertops in Plymouth and neighboring areas? Call Northstar Granite Tops at 320-963-8677 or you can contact us to get a Free Estimate.
