Dear nature lovers,

Greetings from oikos ! 

Marble is a metamorphic rock formed due to thermal metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, most commonly limestone or dolomite rock. Word marble is derived from Greek word - marmaron or Persian word – marmar, meaning crystalline rock or shining stone. Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The resulting marble rock is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals and shows granular structure.

Pure white marble is the result of metamorphism of a very pure (silicate-poor) limestone or dolomite. Along with White Marble, different varieties like Green and Pink Marble are also found in India. The characteristic swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties are usually due to various mineral compositions such as clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone.

In India it is mostly found in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Bhedaghat near Jabalpur is a great tourist attraction for Marble rocks along the river Narmada, as seen in Desktop Image. Dilawara temple from Rajasthan and Lotus temple from Delhi are famous creations carved in Marble.  Also, as we all know, the Taj Mahal is entirely clad in Marble.

Hardness of Marble is very less as compared to other hard stones like Basalt. Neither it is strong nor durable, but still widely used for sculpting for its color and appearance and easiness of working. The low index of refraction of calcite allows light to penetrate several millimeters into the stone before being scattered out, resulting in the characteristic waxy look which gives "life" to marble sculptures of any kind, which is why sculptors prefer marble for sculpting.

Marble industry is ever increasing threat to environment. Slurry of marble waste is choking water bodies and soil and also is great health hazard.

Uses : Marble is popularly used for house wares and sculpture, and at few places for construction.

Regards,

Ketaki & Manasi