sedimentary
Limestone (specifically Tufa or Travertine)
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, or light gray; Luster: Dull to earthy; Structure: Vuggy (porous) and granular; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.7
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Cream, tan, or light gray
- Luster
- Dull to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, or light gray; Luster: Dull to earthy; Structure: Vuggy (porous) and granular; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed by the precipitation of calcium carbonate from ambient temperature water, often near springs or in alkaline lake environments, commonly occurring in the Holocene epoch.
Uses & applications
Used in landscaping, construction (dimension stone), soil conditioning (crushed), and cement manufacturing.
Geological facts
Limestone makes up about 10% of the total volume of all sedimentary rocks. It is highly reactive to cold dilute hydrochloric acid, which can be used to test it in the field.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its light color, porous 'pitted' texture, and soft surface that can be scratched by a steel nail. Common in karst topography regions.
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