By Chisom Ibemere
Travertine is a type of limestone which is formed due to the precipitation of calcium carbonate from mineral springs or groundwater.
It has been in existence since ancient Rome and had been used as a building material.
Travertine is spread across the globe mostly in areas with hot springs or limestone deposits. Some of the most famous examples of travertine can be found in Italy, where it has been used for centuries in buildings such as the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. It is also found in Turkey, where it is known as “Turkish marble.”
It occurs in thermal waters and limestone caves and had been used for centuries as a constructive, architectural and ornamental element.
It is characterized for its aesthetics with many applications in paving or cladding, giving indoor or outdoor spaces an unusual and suggestive beauty.
Travertine is a popular building material due to its aesthetic beauty and durability. It is commonly used for flooring, countertops, and wall cladding, as well as for decorative purposes such as sculptures and carvings. It is also used in architecture and landscaping.
Travertine is a type of limestone, and as such, it is a sedimentary rock. It has a crystalline structure and is typically light in color, ranging from white to beige.
It is a porous rock, which means that it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. It has a Mohs hardness rating of 4, making it relatively soft compared to other stones.
Travertine is a highly valued building material, with its value largely determined by its quality and color. It is often more expensive than other types of stone due to its scarcity and the difficulty of quarrying and processing.
The global value of travertine is difficult to estimate, as it varies greatly by region, quality, and application. However, it is estimated that the market for travertine is currently worth several billion dollars.