sedimentary
Travertine
Travertine (a terrestrial form of Limestone, CaCO3)
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, brown, and cream; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Features: Porous, pitted surface with small cavities.
- Hardness
- 3-4 (Mohs)
- Color
- Tan, beige, brown, and cream
- Luster
- Dull to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, brown, and cream; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Features: Porous, pitted surface with small cavities.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of hot springs or in limestone caves. It is a terrestrial sedimentary rock from various geological periods, typically Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Extensively used as a building material for flooring, wall cladding, facades, and bathroom surfaces; historically used for monuments like the Colosseum.
Geological facts
The largest building in the world constructed mostly of travertine is the Roman Colosseum. The stone is formed by geothermic water cooling and releasing carbon dioxide.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic voids and pits (vugs) created by gas bubbles or decomposed organic matter. Commonly found in Italy, Turkey, Mexico, and the USA (Yellowstone).
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