Everything You Want to Know about Carrara Marble

Imagine you run fresh water into the vase at the sink, and set your flowers on your kitchen island. You look closely at your beautiful Carrara marble.

Grab a cup of coffee, sit down, and let me tell you a story. It’s about the journey that your precious marble made to end up as the masterpiece it is, within your home. 

Where does Carrara marble come from?

Your Carrara used to live in Italy - Carrara, Italy to be exact. Carrara is in the province of Massa, the northernmost tip of modern-day Tuscany. Marble from these Apuan Alps proved popular among Roman architects and Renaissance artists. What’s used for cathedrals and sculptures, fountains and headstones, is now home with you. 

What is Carrara marble made of?

As you run your fingers along your countertop, let me tell you how your beautiful surface came to be. The delicate, soft “white” under your fingers was created by calcite-rich shells. These shells were left behind by marine organisms. Those organisms became calcium carbonate crystals through unfathomable pressure, heat and time. 

This metamorphosis lends marble its unique beauty. Notice the coveted ash-tone veins within your piece? Those too were created by an equally impressive natural phenomenon. They’re from mineral deposits. Those deposits were left behind when water evaporated from between the crystal shells. 

How is Carrara marble harvested?

As you run your fingers along your countertop, let me tell you how your beautiful surface came to be. The delicate, soft “white” under your fingers was created by calcite-rich shells. These shells were left behind by marine organisms. Those organisms became calcium carbonate crystals through unfathomable pressure, heat and time. 

This metamorphosis lends marble its unique beauty. Notice the coveted ash-tone veins within your piece? Those too were created by an equally impressive natural phenomenon. They’re from mineral deposits. Those deposits were left behind when water evaporated from between the crystal shells. 

Why is Carrara marble a good choice for countertops?

Those who’ve lived with the beauty of true marble know the character and patina that evolves over time. 
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It’s an elegant and durable countertop material that will last a lifetime with proper care. The marble’s timeless look compliments all styles of decor. 

How do you maintain Carrara marble?

It’s a porous material that will need to be sealed. After all, It’s made of shell and crystals so you can expect some divots and chipping. Enjoy the beautiful imperfections while they last, Carrara smoothes over time.

Who should install Carrara marble?

With counter material this special, make sure you choose a skilled installer. With our vast experience, Artistic Stone Design can satisfactorily complete your project. Our full design and fabrication team specializes in natural stone. We’ll manage your project with quality, timeliness and attention to detail.

​P.S. For an extra awesome touch, ASD will take the time to polish any seams to nearly invisible. And you’ll never have to ask! 
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Read to schedule your countertop makeover with Artistic Stone Design? Contact us to discuss your renovation plans. Our service area includes Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. ASD always offers free estimates.