metamorphic
White marble countertop
Calcite-rich marble (recrystallized limestone; chiefly CaCO₃)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white to pale gray with gray and rusty veining, vitreous to satin luster, and interlocking calcite crystals; Mohs hardness 3, perfect calcite cleavage, specific gravity about 2.7. The surface shown is polished and likely sealed.
Identified More metamorphic →
Explore White marble countertop in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Typically white to pale gray with gray and rusty veining, vitreous to satin luster, and interlocking calcite crystals; Mohs hardness 3, perfect calcite cleavage, specific gravity about 2.7. The surface shown is polished and likely sealed.
Formation & geological history
Formed when limestone underwent heat and pressure, recrystallizing calcite; ages vary widely depending on the quarry, commonly Paleozoic to Mesozoic. Gray veining is usually graphite, quartz, or silicate minerals, while brown stains may be iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Used extensively for countertops, flooring, wall cladding, monuments, sculpture, and crushed stone; decorative slabs commonly sell for roughly $40–$200+ per square meter, depending on quality and rarity.
Geological facts
Marble reacts vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid or vinegar, producing carbon dioxide bubbles, though sealers can slow the reaction. It is softer and more acid-sensitive than granite or quartzite.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its white calcite-rich body, translucent patches, irregular veins, and scratching by a steel knife; distinguish it from quartzite, which is harder and does not fizz. Common sources include Italy, Greece, Turkey, India, and the United States.
More like this
