Marble

Metamorphosed carbonate rock

Limestone recrystallised by heat and pressure into interlocking crystals.

Brazil

Sample content • provenance shown broadly for demonstration

At a glance

Fast Facts

metamorphic

calcite + accessory minerals

Recrystallisation of limestone under heat and pressure

Brazil

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The Story

When limestone is buried and heated, its calcite grains recrystallise and lock together. Pure marble is white, while clay, iron oxides and other minerals create dramatic coloured veins.

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Where Does It Fit?

Starting material→Recrystallisation of limestone under heat and pressure→Marble