Marble

Marble is a crystalline, compact variety of metamorphosed limestone. The distinctive luster of statuary marble is caused by light penetrating a short distance into the stone and then being reflected by the surfaces of the inner crystals. Marble is significantly softer than granite and is therefore subject to greater wear and weathering. However, like granite, marble adds an air of class and sophistication to architectural decoration. Marble is generally the preferred material for bathroom installation-vanities and both wall and floor tiles as well as fire surrounds.

Marble is a metamorphic rock derived from Sandstone and Limestone that has undergone heat and pressure. A transformation process takes place when the weight of overlying material, pressure from crystal collisions and heat from the earth’s core generate temperatures in excess of 1800F. In its purest from, marble is crystalline white calcite. However most marbles are infused with impurities such as dolomite, silica or clay thereby providing variations in colour and significant movement. The base colours of marble range from white to black with a broad range of hues.

Surfaces must be protected from scratching or staining and therefore it is not suitable for environments where it will be exposed to harsh air pollutants and/ or chemicals or dyes, including those common to many foods.