sedimentary
Travertine
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Hardness: 3-4 Mohs; Color: Tan, beige, or white; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Texture: Porous, vuggy, and pitted
- Hardness
- 3-4 Mohs
- Color
- Tan, beige, or white
- Luster
- Dull to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 Mohs; Color: Tan, beige, or white; Luster: Dull to pearly; Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal; Texture: Porous, vuggy, and pitted
Formation & geological history
Formed by the rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. It is technically a terrestrial sedimentary rock.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for flooring, wall cladding, and pavers. Smaller specimens are collected for their unique pitted textures.
Geological facts
The Roman Colosseum is the largest building in the world constructed mostly of travertine. Transitioning from white to tan, the color often depends on iron content.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic pits and holes (vugs) caused by gas bubbles during formation. It will effervesce (fizz) when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid.
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