Do you have a vision of a classic kitchen or bathroom with luxurious marble countertops or backsplashes? If so, your search for the perfect marble slab may be more diverse than you think.

Various types of marble will all give your room a slightly different look, as each has its own unique color and veining. No two slabs of marble are going to appear the same, even if they are the same type. This is one of the reasons having marble in your home can make it feel so opulent – It’s refined and unique to your space. All you have to do is decide which one is for you.

We’re showing you the differences between three classic marble types – Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario marble.

Carrara

Appearance: Carrara marble has soft veining and is takes on a blue-gray appearance. The gray background of this marble shows off subtle gray flecks and feathery, linear veining.  In comparison to other marbles, Carrara has a more subtle appearance.

Origin: True to its name, Carrara marble is quarried in northern Tuscany, Italy, in the city of Carrara. The Apuan Alps have more than 600 quarry sites for Carrara marble. That is more than any other marble quarry in the world!

Application: Various well-known monuments and statues were created with Carrara marble, such as Michelangelo’s David, the Pantheon and London’s Marble Arch. Aside from its structural uses, modern applications for the stone include wall panels, flooring, stairways and countertops.

Availability: Marmol carries Bianco Carrara marble in both honed and polished finishes. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 16”x32”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 24×36, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Set up a showing.

Calacatta

Appearance: Calacatta marble has a pure white background with gorgeous, dramatic gold and gray veining. Calacatta does not follow a linear pattern and is often considered one of the most luxurious and pure marbles in appearance. If you’re looking for a heavy veining, this choice is much bolder than Carrara marble, with thicker and larger patterns.

Origin: This marble is also quarried in Carrara, Italy. This location causes confusion between Calacatta and Carrara marble, since they are quarried in the same region.

Application: Calacatta is a classic look for residential and commercial applications, like its use as elegant floor tiles, countertops and backsplashes.

Availability: Marmol carries Calacatta marble in a polished finish. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 12”x24”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Set up a showing.

Statuario

Appearance: Statuario marble is a more exclusive stone with distinct gray and gold veining throughout and a striking, bold pattern. This marble is considered to be one of the major white marbles. Statuario marble contains heavy, bold gray veining mixed with thinner patterns.

Origin: Statuario marble is also quarried in Italy. The mountain quarries of Statuario marble are located above Carrara. Statuario has limited availability and high demand. The low availability of this marble makes it more of a rare find.

Application: Statuario marble is an ideal stone for indoor applications such as kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathroom vanities, and floor tiles. Statuario marble should not be used for exterior applications.

Availability: Marmol carries Statuario marble in a polished finish. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Bookmatched slabs also available. Set up a showing.

Note that regardless of the type of marble you decide to use in your space, all marbles should be sealed before use to reduce the appearance of stains and sustain the integrity of the stone. Light scratching will also occur with all marbles mentioned. Since marble is a natural stone it will age and change with time.

Which is more your style – Carrara, Calacatta, Statuario or another marble pick? Share with us @marmolexportusa.