metamorphic
Marble
Metamorphosed Limestone / Calcite or Dolomite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3-4 (Mohs), Color: White with grey veining, Luster: Vitreous to dull (polished here), Crystal structure: Granular mosaic of calcite crystals, Cleavage: Perfect in calcite grains, Specific gravity: 2.7
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore Marble in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs), Color: White with grey veining, Luster: Vitreous to dull (polished here), Crystal structure: Granular mosaic of calcite crystals, Cleavage: Perfect in calcite grains, Specific gravity: 2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed by regional or contact metamorphism of limestone or dolostone. Found in convergent plate boundaries or near igneous intrusions.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction for countertops, flooring, cladding, and sculpture.
Geological facts
The grey veining is typically caused by mineral impurities such as clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its reaction (fizz) with dilute hydrochloric acid, relative softness (can be scratched by a knife), and typical veined appearance. Found globally in mountainous regions.
More like this
Other metamorphic specimens
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Amphibolite
Amphibolite
metamorphic
Rhodonite
Manganese Silicate (Mn, Fe, Mg, Ca)SiO3
mineral
Rhodonite
(Mn,Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3
mineral
Greenschist
Greenschist (containing Chlorite, Actinolite, and Epidote)
metamorphic
Garnet
Garnet group: X3Y2(SiO4)3 (commonly Almandine-Pyrope series)
mineral