travertine

A type of limestone formed by precipitation from springs or streams rich in dissolved calcium carbonate. When porous and spongy in appearance, it may be termed calc tufa. It is extensively mined in Tuscany, Italy, and used as a paving stone.

When pure, travertine is white, but often is brown to yellow due to impurities. In fact, travertine derives its name from this town. The ancient name for the stone was lapis tiburtinus meaning tibur stone, which has been corrupted to travertine.

Detailed studies of the Tivoli travertine deposits revealed diurnal and annual rhythmic banding and laminae which have potential use in geochronology (Folk, 1985).

Travertine has formed 16 huge, natural dams in a valley in Croatia known as Plitvice National Park. The Travertine clings to moss and rocks in the water, and has built up over several millennia to form waterfalls up to 70 m in height.

Other beautiful cascades of natural lakes formed behind travertine dams can be seen in Band-i-Amir (Afghanistan), HuangLong Valley (Sichuan, China), Semuc Champey (Guatemala), and Pamukkale (Turkey). Many geyser fields also have colorful travertine deposits.

The largest building in the world constructed largely of travertine is the Colosseum in Rome. Other notable buildings using travertine extensively include the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris and the Getty Center in Los Angeles, California. The travertine used in the construction was imported from Tivoli. The website of the Getty Center contains more information about the use of travertine in its construction, including some videos of travertine being quarried and cut for use.

Travertine is one of several natural stones that are used for paving patios and garden paths. It is sometimes known as travertine limestone, sometimes as travertine marble; Some installers use a grout to fill these holes, whereas others leave them open — travertine can even be purchased "filled" or "unfilled." Travertine is most commonly available in tile sizes for floor installations.

Travertine is one of the most frequently used stones in modern architecture, and is commonly seen as facade material, wall cladding, and flooring. Architect Welton Becket was one of the most frequent users of travertine, incorporating it extensively into many if not most of his projects. The entire first floor of the Becket-designed UCLA Medical Center has thick travertine walls.