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Travertine

A pale, dense, banded limestone derived from the evaporation of hot springs. The term is sometimes used for stalactites and stalagmites. A variety of limestone deposited by springs; usually banded; commonly coarsely cellular; used as building stone, esp. for interior facing and flooring; some varieties are sold as marble in the building trade. Travertine - Ivory to golden brown colored limestone formed over a period of about 600,000 years by precipitation in hot mineral springs. It comes out of the ground "relatively" soft compared to marble, but hardens with age and exposure. It has a sponge-like texture with up to 1/2" holes. These cavities are frequently filled with a matching Portland cement.

A rather dense, banded limestone, sometimes moderately porous, that is formed either by evaporation about springs, as is tufa, or in caves, as stalactites, stalagmites, or dripstone. Where travertine or tufa (calcareous sinter) is deposited by hot springs, it may be the result of the loss of carbon dioxide from the waters as pressure is released upon emerging at the surface; the release of carbon dioxide lowers the solubility of calcium carbonate and it precipitates. High rates of evaporation in hot-spring pools also lead to supersaturation. Travertine formed in caves is simply the result of complete evaporation of waters containing mainly calcium carbonate.

Travertine stone is a form of limestone. It often forms near hot bubbly mineral rich springs. Gas bubbles become trapped and create a pitted surface on the stone. These pitted surfaces can be filled with an epoxy or dust resin. Filling the small holes and pits gives the travertine a more finished look. A refined beauty. The stone surface can also be left in its natural state with the small holes and pits unfilled.

Travertine colors are in warm earthy tones. From the softest ivories to the palest creams. Rich shades of golden honey and silvery greens to deep mocha browns. Travertine never appears as one solid color. The color tones vary and veins or bands of contrasting color run throughout the stone. No two stones or tiles are alike.

Material Notes:
Sedimentary rock - a banded limestone formed by aqueous precipitates. Many colors are possible and are used in construction.

It is used for interior walls such as backsplashes. There are travertine sinks, floors, mosaic tiles, statuary, fireplace surrounds, tub surrounds, vanities, and end tables. It's also used for accessories such as light switch plates, trim, vases, and coasters.

Travertine can be used for countertops but it's not recommended. It scratches, stains, and absorbs liquids easier than other natural stones. If you plan to use travertine for your countertop, make sure it is a harder and less porous stone. It works well for flooring and smaller spaces. This stone seems to open up small areas and makes them feel more spacious and airy.

The truth is that travertine is highly susceptible to heat, scratching, staining and acidity, including citric acid, so it should only be cleaned with special products designed for use on natural stone.

Never use cleaners that contain vinegar or citrus oils on travertine. Even water can be harmful to the texture of travertine if it is allowed to sit on the stone for long periods of time. One must also take care to use a hot pad or a trivet when placing something on hot on stone surfaces, and homeowners should never cut or slice directly on the stone.

See Travertine FAQ and Travertine Study.

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