#worldofmarble

Marble — a rock who will not leave anyone indifferent. With a fascinating story behind, it keeps charming people for ages. Today we will continue talking about the popularity of this luxury stone. Check out the first part in our blog if you haven’t seen it yet!

Rome

Following the Ancient Greeks, Romans began using marble slabs for bricks cladding and mortar buildings. This kind of innovation allowed them to build entire cities made of marble within a relatively short span of time. 

Of course, the artists of the time could not miss out on the opportunity to use marble in their projects. Most of the ancient Roman sculptors are now known for their marble copies of Greek bronzes and marble busts. 

Europe: Medieval Times and Renaissance

Europeans’ love for marble survived all the way through the fall of the Roman Empire and the Dark Ages. Its use spread to some of the most grandiose palaces and cathedrals of that time. 

Enlightened artists of the Italian Renaissance has marble as their medium of choice and produced the incredible pieces of art we still enjoy today. A great example is Michelangelo’s iconic David statue. 

Asian Renaissance 

Marble has not just stayed in Europe. Asian royalty loved this material as well and wanted to see it around. One of the most famous buildings in the world is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. It is a gorgeous mausoleum made of white marble, constructed by the order of a king for his wife. 

Europe’s Baroque and Rococo

At the peak of the European Baroque and Rococo periods, marble was the favorite material of the architects. They used marble in many highly detailed palace works. Various fountains, staircases, mantelpieces, and courtyards of that time are made of the luxury marble rock. 

The royal families would have their homes decorated with marble furniture, flooring, and fixtures. The fixtures, such as marble clocks and sinks, remained popular among the 19th-century European bourgeois as well. 

Marble Today

Marble is one of the most famous types of natural stone nowadays. Many know that it’s an old and beautiful rock, but how and why did it begin to be so widespread? We will explore the history behind this gorgeous kind of stone in this article today. 

Marble’s popularity began a long time ago, even the name, “Marble”, comes from the Greek: “Mur” or “Murmur” means “a shiny stone”. And since ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome times, different colored marble has been used in the construction industry and served a special role in people’s hearts. 

Egypt 

In ancient Egypt, marble vessels were put in the pharaohs’ tombs, so they could have them in the afterlife. Marble and gold were considered the best building materials, adored by all. No wonder people believed, that by placing marble objects and sculptures next to the tombs of the loved ones, they were assuring a better life after death for them. 

Greece

In Ancient Greece, marble was often used in art and some of the most fascinating objects of art are made of this rock. One of the most famous sculptures is Venus de Milo, which has been carved out of marble in Ancient Greece, it is still associated with elegance and gracefulness, just as the material itself. 

Love our articles about marble? Visit our blog to find more about different types of natural stone, interior and exterior design, the latest decorations trends and installations lifehacks. 

Today I will share some less known facts about marble and marble applications:

Marble is Hypoallergenic

Marble’s low porosity and density make the natural stone hypoallergenic indoors. This building material does not collect allergens and thus is a great choice for people with any allergy concerns and hotels.

Unique Because of Its Impurities

Sand, silt,clay, and iron oxides — impurities of this natural stone create layers and patterns within marble. Different characteristics can be identified by colors of the rock. For instance, shades of green are a sign of a high level of magnesium in the limestone before it became marblе.

Perfect for Kitchens and Hot Weather

Marble is heat resistant. Since it does not absorb energy or heat as quickly as other natural building materials, it is a great choice for hot climates.

Marble kitchen countertops is a fantastic investment into kitchens for both houses and restaurants. Marble countertops do not conduct heat well, which makes them perfect for cooking and especially for working with desserts and pastries. These natural stone countertops also prevent the kitchen from feeling extra steamy during meal preparations.

Special Stone Cleaners are a Must

While relatively easy to maintain, marble surfaces still require some special care. Never use any acidic cleaners for marble tiles and countertops. Say no to cleaning with vinegar, but remember that water is also not enough. Use a neutral stone cleaner, or some special ones made particularly for marble.