metamorphic
Marble
Recrystallized Carbonate Rock (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: White with grey veining; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal (rhombohedral); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral (not visible in polished slab); Specific Gravity: 2.7
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White with grey veining
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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 on Mohs scale; Color: White with grey veining; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal (rhombohedral); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral (not visible in polished slab); Specific Gravity: 2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional or contact metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, such as limestone or dolostone. This involve intense heat and pressure over millions of years causing recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains.
Uses & applications
Widely used for flooring, countertops, wall cladding, sculpture, and as an architectural decorative stone. Also used in crushed form as an aggregate in construction.
Geological facts
The gray veining often seen in white marble is due to mineral impurities such as clay, silt, sand, or iron oxides which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone. India is home to famous marble quarries, most notably in Rajasthan.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a steel blade) and its effervescent reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid. The regional coordinates provided (Andhra Pradesh, India) are near major metamorphic belts where marble and khondalites are found.
More like this
