Metamorphic Rocks · common
Marble
Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals. It has been used for sculpture and architecture since ancient times.
Also known as: carrara, sculpture stone.
Marble properties at a glance
| Type | Metamorphic Rocks |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CaCO3 |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | Variable by mineral grains |
| Fracture | Granular |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | White, Gray, Pink, Green, Black |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms when limestone undergoes metamorphism from heat and pressure, recrystallizing the calcite.
Used in ancient Greek and Roman architecture, including the Parthenon and Roman Colosseum.
How to identify Marble
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Marble examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Marble identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Marble vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Marble.
Where Marble is found
Marble is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Marble worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $50 |
| Premium specimen | $500+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Sculpture
- Building material
- Countertops
- Flooring
Interesting facts
- Michelangelo's David is carved from Carrara marble
- The Taj Mahal is made of white marble from Rajasthan
- Pure marble is white; impurities create color variations
Care & safety
Treat Marble as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Marble FAQ
What is Marble?
Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals. It has been used for sculpture and architecture since ancient times.
How much is Marble worth?
Entry-level Marble specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $50, and premium pieces for $500 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Marble?
Marble has a Mohs hardness of 3.5. A steel knife blade (Mohs 5.5) scratches it; a copper coin does not.
Where is Marble found?
Notable sources of Marble include Italy, Greece, Turkey, USA, and China. Forms when limestone undergoes metamorphism from heat and pressure, recrystallizing the calcite..
What is Marble used for?
Marble is used for sculpture, building material, countertops, and flooring.
