sedimentary

Travertine (Tufa)

Travertine (Aragonite/Calcite form of Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: White, cream, tan; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal or Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.7; Pitted or vesicular texture.

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs)
Color: White, cream, tan
Luster: Dull to pearly

Identified July 2, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: White, cream, tan; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal or Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.7; Pitted or vesicular texture.

Formation & geological history

Formed by the rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. The porous texture suggests it may be the 'Tufa' variety, which forms in ambient temperature waters with high organic content.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a building material, floor tiling, wall cladding, and for decorative garden ornaments.

Geological facts

Travertine is the material used to build the Colosseum in Rome. The location provided in Jalisco, Mexico (near Zapopan/Guadalajara) is known for geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes where carbonate precipitation is common.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its porous, pitted surface and its reaction (fizzing) when exposed to a drop of weak acid (vinegar). It reflects the local hydrothermal history. Common in areas with limestone bedrock and thermal springs.