Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock, formed when limestone is exposed to high temperatures and pressures, and the calcite that makes up the limestone recrystallises and forms a denser rock. The colour of marble is the result of small amounts of impurities in the rock, which is determined by the geology of a location. Hence, regions and mines become known for specific colours and striation. Even though it is found all over the globe, the majority comes from Italy, China, India, and Spain.

Occasionally, the formation of marble from limestone does not completely destroy all of the fossilised organic structures, and they remain a visible part of the stone. And impurities present in the limestone react during metamorphism to form minerals, such as pale-green talc, black or grey graphite, and brown limonite.