sedimentary
Travertine
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 3 on Mohs scale, typically white or cream-colored, vitreous to dull luster, microcrystalline structure, and displays characteristic banding.
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Travertine in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on Mohs scale, typically white or cream-colored, vitreous to dull luster, microcrystalline structure, and displays characteristic banding.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the precipitation of carbonate minerals from hydrothermal solutions, particularly around hot springs or limestone caves.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural facades, interior flooring, and ornamental tile work.
Geological facts
Famous ancient structures like the Colosseum in Rome were constructed largely using travertine.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its banded appearance and effervescence when exposed to hydrochloric acid; commonly found in Italy, Turkey, and the United States.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
Calcareous concretion; exact fossil and host-rock composition are not identifiable from the image
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Shale
Fissile Sedimentary Rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Shale
Clastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary