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| Learn About Natural Stone |
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The classification of stone is based on the mineral and chemical composition, texture of particles and forming process the rock has undergone. The rock cycle is the process in which one rock is transformed into another, as time, heat and pressure form beauty. Three rock classes are Igneous rock, Sedimentary rock, and Metamorphic rock.
--Igneous rock is rock formed from molten magma of the Earth’s core pushed outward. Slowly cooling and crystallized in the Earth's crust (i.e. Granite); or completely pushed out to the surface of the Earth.
--Sedimentary rock is rock formed from small rock and mineral particles, organic matter and chemical precipitates that are compacted and cemented together over years. This type of rock is usually formed at or near the Earth’s surface. Sandstone, Limestone, Dolomite, Chalk and Soapstone are all forms of sedimentary rock.
--Metamorphic Rock is any type of rock that undergoes high enough pressure and temperature to change the original mineral composition or cause re-crystallization to take place. Slate and Marble are examples of metamorphic rock.
Travertine
Noce Travertine
Honed, Unfilled with chiseled edge
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Travertine is a sedimentary rock that is formed by the precipitate of carbonate minerals often from mineral spring water. As pictured below, pure travertine is white (i.e. at the thermal springs of Pamukkale, Turkey), but hues of yellow and brown are due to impurities deposited with the minerals. Travertine is often porous with many cavities. This is due to carbon dioxide rich water passing through the rocks, dissolving the limestone and once it reaches the surface, releasing the carbon dioxide under lower pressure. The limestone is then left to precipitate onto underwater plants and surfaces, where it is compacted and cemented together to form layers of hard rock. Travertine comes either unfilled (tumbled or porous) or filled and polished. Colors range from white/grey to red and the stone is suitable for indoor and outdoor (with specific sealant) use.
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Marble
Mugla (White) Marble
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Marble is a metamorphic rock in which sedimentary rocks are re-crystallized through intense heat and pressure – enough to destroy all sedimentary textures and organic material. The bands of the original melted stone can often be seen as swirls in the cut stone. Marble is found in a wide range of colorings from pure white to black. It is a hard stone and suitable for use on floors, countertops, walls, pillars and any other ornamental items (i.e. statues).
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Onyx
12"x12" Rainbow Onyx Installation
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Onyx is a crystalline form of quartz that is found in nearly every color. It is a softer stone than marble or granite and therefore best installed in places without abundant exposure to foot traffic.
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Color of Pure Stone
White Travertine
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Pure stone is white. Minerals and impurities found in the soil act as the coloring agents for the rocks. For instance iron oxide is abundant in reddish stone. Limonite (iron oxide-hydroxide) and goethite (iron bearing mineral) brings yellow and brown into the mix. Manganese oxide and carbon containing substances lead to black colorings. Phosphates result in bluish colorings and green is due to chlorite and glauconite (iron silicate).
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