sedimentary

Travertine

Travertine (form of massive calcium carbonate, CaCO3)

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale); Color: Tan, cream, beige, or yellowish; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: Perfect in three directions (in calcite crystals); Specific gravity: 2.71

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale)
Color: Tan, cream, beige, or yellowish
Luster: Dull to pearly

Identified June 28, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. Over geological time, pressure and mineral-rich waters create these banded or mottled terrestrial sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Extensively used as a building material for flooring, wall cladding, and bathroom surfaces. It is also used for garden paths, decorative furniture, and statuary.

Geological facts

Travertine is one of the most frequently used stones in modern architecture. The Colosseum in Rome is the largest building in the world constructed largely of travertine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic porous texture (often filled with resin in tiles), light earth-toned colors, and susceptibility to acid (it will fizz with dilute HCl). Commonly found in Italy, Turkey, and Yellowstone National Park.

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