Known for its beauty in sculptures and architecture, very few natural stones have as many uses as marble. From pharmaceuticals and agriculture to cosmetics and construction, marble’s unique properties have allowed it to provide value in various industries. While many home projects consider marble for countertops and vanities, there are many uses of marble that transfer beyond these typical applications.
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Properties of Marble
Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate, a.k.a. limestone, and various other minerals. When exposed to high heat and pressure, the chemicals and crystals will react and become marble. Sounds simple, right? For the full scientific explanation, check out our blog, How is Marble Formed?
Like other natural stones, marble’s mineral composition will be the indicator of its color. Marble will tend to be lighter in color with the purest calcite marble being white, however the following minerals will add some color:
- Hematite – red
- Limonite – yellow
- Serpentine – green
- Bituminous – black
Common Uses of Marble in Your Home
As a stone, marble is both durable and attractive which allows it to be used in a variety of applications throughout your home.
Floors
One of the most common applications for marble is flooring. People most often opt for simple white marble with black or grey veining to add to their space. Our blog, What to Consider When Looking for a Natural Stone Floor, lists the properties to consider for any type of natural stone floor.
Accent Walls and Backsplash
Whether it’s kitchen backsplash or walls throughout your home, marble not only adds a beautiful touch of sophistication but is also withstand your daily life due to its strength.
Countertops
When considering countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, marble is often one of the first materials that is looked at. Like other stones, there are pros and cons to every application, marble countertops included. From its unique colors and patterns to its heat-resistant properties, marble is a great choice for countertops as long as you are willing to maintain it.
Stairs
Carpet and wood stairs are more susceptible to wear and ages over time. Marble stairs are not only durable but will also be a bit easier to clean and maintain as well.
Other Ways Marble is Used
Buildings
Famous buildings such as the Taj Mahal, Lincoln Memorial, Supreme Court Building, and Washington Monument were constructed using various types of marble from around the world.
Cemetery Markers
Marble is economical, easy to cut, and engrave which is why it is commonly used as cemetery markers.
Agricultural Lime
Like limestone, some marble can be heated to form calcium oxide or lime. Lime is used in combination with fertilizers to improve the yield of the soil and to reduce soil acidity.
Sculpture
Marble is a “soft” stone, fine-grained, and has uniform properties which is why it was so popular for artists to use for sculptures. Michelangelo used marble to sculpt David, Moses, and Pietà.
Michelangelo’s David was sculpted in marble between the years 1501 and 1504.
Construction Aggregate
Crushed marble is often used in construction projects to fill where abrasion and sound resistance are not critical. Due to the presence of calcite, marble has shown to cleave more readily than limestone and shows less abrasion resistance than granite.
Brightener
Depending on its composition, some marbles are extremely white. These types of marbles are often used to manufacture a white powder known as whiting. This powder is then used as a brightener, filler, and pigment in paint, paper, and other products.
Interested in Marble for Your Project?
Marble is a versatile stone known for its beauty in a variety of applications. If you’re looking to install marble in your home, Z Stone Creations has you covered. From your first consultation in our showroom to installation in your home, our professional and knowledgeable team will work with you to help bring your vision to life. To schedule your free consultation, contact Z Stone today.
