sedimentary
Travertine (Calcareous Tufa)
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, yellowish; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral (rarely visible in tufa form); Specific gravity: 2.71
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Cream, tan, yellowish
- Luster
- Dull to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, yellowish; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral (rarely visible in tufa form); Specific gravity: 2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed by the precipitation of carbonate minerals from ambient temperature fresh water, often at hot springs or along the shorelines of saline lakes. It is relatively young geologically, often Holocene or Pleistocene in age.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative stone, in construction (facades, flooring), and as garden ornaments. Highly porous varieties like tufa are popular in rock gardens for their water retention.
Geological facts
Travertine is the same material that forms stalactites and stalagmites in caves. The Colosseum in Rome is the largest building in the world constructed mostly of travertine.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its porous, vuggy texture and light weight. It will effervesce (fizz) vigorously when in contact with diluted hydrochloric acid or white vinegar. Commonly found near limestone regions and geothermal areas.
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