sedimentary

Travertine (Calcareous Tufa)

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, yellowish; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral (rarely visible in tufa form); Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale
Color: Cream, tan, yellowish
Luster: Dull to pearly

Identified May 18, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the precipitation of carbonate minerals from ambient temperature fresh water, often at hot springs or along the shorelines of saline lakes. It is relatively young geologically, often Holocene or Pleistocene in age.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as decorative stone, in construction (facades, flooring), and as garden ornaments. Highly porous varieties like tufa are popular in rock gardens for their water retention.

Geological facts

Travertine is the same material that forms stalactites and stalagmites in caves. The Colosseum in Rome is the largest building in the world constructed mostly of travertine.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its porous, vuggy texture and light weight. It will effervesce (fizz) vigorously when in contact with diluted hydrochloric acid or white vinegar. Commonly found near limestone regions and geothermal areas.