sedimentary

Travertine

Travertine (CaCO3 - Calcium Carbonate)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale); Color: White, cream, tan, or rust-colored; Luster: Dull to pearly/greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (as microcrystalline calcite or aragonite); Cleavage: Perfect in three directions (microscopic level); Specific Gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale)
Color: White, cream, tan, or rust-colored
Luster: Dull to pearly/greasy

Identified March 31, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of hot springs or in limestone caves. It is a terrestrial sedimentary rock, typically Quaternary to Tertiary in age, resulting from high mineral content in groundwater.

Uses & applications

Extensively used in construction for flooring, wall cladding, and pavers. Historically used to build the Colosseum in Rome. Also used in sculpture and landscape design.

Geological facts

Travertine is technically a form of limestone that is unique due to its porous nature, caused by gas bubbles trapped during formation. The word 'travertine' is derived from the Italian town Tivoli, known as Tibur in Roman times, where massive deposits occur.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive pitted/porous texture (vugs) and concentric or fibrous banding. It reacts strongly (fizzes) with cold diluted hydrochloric acid. Commonly found in Italy, Turkey, Mexico, and Yellowstone National Park (USA).