metamorphic
Marble (Calcitic)
Metamorphosed Limestone (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light gray with slight mottling; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: trigonal/rhombohedral; Cleavage: perfect in three directions (not visible in grain); Specific gravity: 2.7
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- white to light gray with slight mottling
- Luster
- vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: white to light gray with slight mottling; Luster: vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: trigonal/rhombohedral; Cleavage: perfect in three directions (not visible in grain); Specific gravity: 2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional or contact metamorphism of limestone or dolostone. High heat and pressure cause the recrystallization of carbonate minerals into a dense interlocking mosaic of crystals.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction (tiles, facades), as a flux in metallurgy, for sculpturing, and as a soil treatment in agriculture.
Geological facts
Marble has been used by sculptors like Michelangelo for centuries because of its relative softness and isotropic properties. It is chemically sensitive to acid rain because of its calcium carbonate content.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its sugary (saccharoidal) texture and reaction (fizzing) with dilute hydrochloric acid. It is softer than glass or quartz and can be scratched with a copper penny.
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