Get A Quote
No Junk mail. No spam Calls. Free quotes

Italian Marble: What It Is and Why You Should Buy It

  |  
Written by Ross Kernez on June 28, 2019
Edited By Amanda Kaiser, Last Updated On January 02, 2024
Reviewed By Samantha Peterson
Share this article
Feedback:

Table of Contents

Many remodeling projects involve the incorporation of Italian marble into the home. Marble is a common material used in such projects, but specifically marble that comes from Italy. The country is famous for producing many different variations of the luxurious natural stone. 

In terms of types of Italian marble, White Carrara is the most popular. The stone is quarried in the north-central region of Italy. The north-central region also produces other beautiful types of marble such as Calacatta and Bardiglio. 

Find out everything you will need to know about Italian marble and why it is a good choice for your home. 

[get_quote]

What is Marble? 

Marble is a stunning natural stone that is often used to build home structures, such as countertops. The stone is quarried worldwide and comes in many different variations. Many types of marble are quarried in Italy. If you are thinking about purchasing marble, some helpful information you may want to know is explained below. This information includes the appearance, cost, durability, maintenance, repair and resale value of marble. 

Appearance 

Marble has a classy and timeless look to it. The natural stone’s stylish veining will give aesthetic appeal to your home. 

Cost 

Marble typically costs somewhere around $50 to $150 per square foot installed. This price will depend on a range of factors, including the type of marble you buy. Rarer forms of marble will come at an increased price. 

Durability 

Something to keep in mind about marble is that it is extremely vulnerable to spills. It is also prone to scratching if you are not careful around it. For example, if you cut directly on your marble countertop, it may cause scratches on the surface. However, if you take good care of the stone, marble will give your home a great look for years to come. 

Maintenance 

Marble is a porous stone. The material will be damaged by spilling any acidic products, such as juice or coffee. If you have a marble countertop, you must be careful and avoid spills such as these. When cleaning your marble, do not use any vinegar or bleach products. You should also not use Windex, as it can damage the marble. To clean your marble, you should only use cleaners that are specifically designed for use with marble. 

Repair 

If you have any minor chips in your marble, there are marble repair kits you can purchase. You do not necessarily need a professional to help you fix the chips. However, any significant damages will require you to hire a professional. Like many other natural stone surfaces, marble needs to be sealed. It must be re-sealed as often as every three months. 

Resale Value

The presence of marble in your home will provide great value. The material will be sure to interest any potential buyers. However, this value is only sustainable if you take good care of the marble. Damaged or worn marble holds much less value than marble that has been kept in good shape. 

[get_quote]

How is Marble Used? 

Marble can be used to construct many features of the home. One of the most common applications of marble in the home is for countertops. Regardless of the way you incorporate it into the home, marble will add both visual appeal and added value. 

How is Marble Quarried? 

In modern times, marble is quarried using complex machinery that can cut the stone in many different ways. Historically, ancient Romans used basic tools such as hammers, sticks and wedges to extract marble. As time went along, technology advanced. During the 18th Century, marble was extracted using explosives. In the following century, specialized machinery was developed for quarrying marble. 

How is Marble Transported? 

Luxuries such as large trucks and trains did not exist during ancient Roman times. During this time, marble was transported by either sliding it down mountains or using a wooden sledge controlled by ropes. 

Where Does Italian Marble Come From? 

While the answer to this question may appear to be obvious, there is a specific region of Italy that produces high quality marble. Carrera Marble comes from a location near the city of Carrera, which is situated in the Apuan Alps in northern-central Italy. This region also produces many other types of marble, including Calacatta and Bardiglio.  

Where is Italian Marble Exported? 

Italian marble is exported to over 100 countries across the globe. The most popular export destination for Italian marble is the United States.  

Common Types of Italian Marble 

Italy produces many different types of marble. Some of the most popular types include White Carrara, Calacatta and Bardiglio. 

White Carrara

White Carrera Marble is one of the most well-known varieties of Italian marble. The natural stone is primarily white in color but features some hints of gray. 

Calacatta

Calacatta Marble is considered to be rarer than White Carrera. Calacatta Marble comes in a variety of colors, from bright white to shades of gold. 

Bardiglio 

Bardiglio Marble is a stunning natural stone that is darker in color than Calacatta or White Carrera. The stone is gray with attractive veining that is either dark gray or white. 

Why is Italian Marble so Popular?

Although marble is quarried in many different countries, varieties of Italian marble remain the most popular types that people desire. So what exactly sets apart Italian marble from marble quarried in other countries? The answer is the legacy of the stone. Italian marble has long been recognized for its beauty, durability and luxurious feel. Many famous statues and structures have been built using Italian marble, including Michelangelo’s “David”. 

[get_quote]

Why Should I Buy Italian Marble? 

There is an endless amount of reasons why you should buy Italian marble. From the appearance to the quality of the stone, choosing Italian marble can be one of the best investments you ever make. 

Italian marble truly is one of the finest natural stones you can buy. One can see why the stone has been around since the time of ancient Romans and has been used to build everything from famous statues to kitchen and bathroom countertops. 

Why you can trust Marble.com
When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.
[Total: 87 Average: 5.0/5]
You must be logged in before you can vote.
Get your countertop estimate today!

Marble.com Review Standards

How has it helped you?

Get Estimate
Selection
Visualizer
Where To Buy