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Travertine is a natural stone composed of calcium-carbonate deposits, known for its durability and natural resistance to staining and wear. New Zealand’s famous Pink and White terraces, destroyed by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886, were made from the same material. The characteristic crystal lined cavities in travertine are the result of gas bubbles trapped in the deposits as they are laid down.
Travertine, mined from the Tiber valley, was used extensively in the architecture of ancient Rome. The Coliseum, which has stood for 2000 years, is made from this stone, as is the recently restored façade of St. Peter's Basilica. Being a natural stone each piece of travertine is unique. Much of it has the rich, deep patterning seen in other natural stones such as marble. Travertine is commonly used outdoors for cladding and paving, and has the advantage of being frost proof. The unfilled travertine is also relatively slip resistant. In doors it is used for floors, walls, countertops and vanities.
The Coliseum in Rome, having stood for over 2000 years, is perhaps the most famous travertine structure in the world. We offer travertines that are “unfilled and honed”, "filled and polished" or "filled and honed." Travertine is generally filled with cement before it is honed or polished, which produces a uniform surface more like other marbles. Unfilled travertine is quite beautiful, and is often seen as exterior cladding on buildings.
Travertines result from hot spring water percolating up through underground limestone. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind layers of dissolved limestone and other minerals, giving it its banded appearance. The characteristic holes in travertine are the result of trapped gas bubbles; as the gas escapes, crystals form in the cavities. Yellowstone Park, for example, with its geysers and mineral springs, produces travertine. Travertines are generally light-coloured beiges and tans, though there are some beautiful, coloured travertines that have resulted from other minerals dissolved by hot water underground.
Travertines range in hardness from 4-5 on the ten-point MOHS scale (diamonds are 10; granites are ±7), making it perfect for most areas of the home. Care does need to be taken, however when choosing material for a high-traffic area or kitchen countertops which might be subject to etching substances. Like any stone, travertine should be sealed with a penetrating sealer to prevent stains from penetrating into the stone. All stone is not alike and all stone suppliers are not alike. We offer a range of travertine that has been carefully selected after many years of trial. Quality we feel you will be happy with.
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- 406 x 406 x 10mm
- 610x610x13mm
- 406x806x13mm
Mosiac sheets are also available in different colours.
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