A metamorphic rock formed from the recrystallization of limestone under heat and pressure. Prized for its beauty and used in sculpture and architecture since ancient times. Texture: Crystalline granoblastic. Rock type: Metamorphic Non-foliated. Grain size: Medium to coarse. Minerals present: Calcite, Dolomite, may contain Mica. Formation: Forms when limestone is subjected to high temperatures and pressures during metamorphism, causing calcite crystals to recrystallize and grow larger. Common geological settings: Found in metamorphic belts where limestone was subjected to regional or contact metamorphism. Famous deposits in Italy, Greece, and Vermont. Common look-alikes and related entries: Limestone, Quartzite.
These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.
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GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:39:20.245545+00:00
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Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
A metamorphic rock formed from the recrystallization of limestone under heat and pressure. Prized for its beauty and used in sculpture and architecture since ancient times.
How can you identify Marble?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Metamorphic Non-foliated; texture: Crystalline granoblastic; grain size: Medium to coarse; common minerals: Calcite, Dolomite, may contain Mica. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Marble form?
Forms when limestone is subjected to high temperatures and pressures during metamorphism, causing calcite crystals to recrystallize and grow larger.
Where is Marble commonly found?
Found in metamorphic belts where limestone was subjected to regional or contact metamorphism. Famous deposits in Italy, Greece, and Vermont.
What is Marble commonly confused with?
Marble may be confused with Limestone, Quartzite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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