sedimentary

Travertine

Travertine (a terrestrial form of Limestone, CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, brown, and cream; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Features: Porous, pitted surface with small cavities.

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs)
Color: Tan, beige, brown, and cream
Luster: Dull to pearly

Identified June 10, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Tan, beige, brown, and cream; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Features: Porous, pitted surface with small cavities.

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 from various geological periods, typically Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as a building material for flooring, wall cladding, facades, and bathroom surfaces; historically used for monuments like the Colosseum.

Geological facts

The largest building in the world constructed mostly of travertine is the Roman Colosseum. The stone is formed by geothermic water cooling and releasing carbon dioxide.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic voids and pits (vugs) created by gas bubbles or decomposed organic matter. Commonly found in Italy, Turkey, Mexico, and the USA (Yellowstone).