Ive done a lot of projects over the years in Travertine and it has to be one of my favorite natural stones. I think its the combination of durability, versatility and wonderful aesthetic features which means I keep on coming back to it for many different projects.
So outlined below is a brief overview of this classic natural stone staple:
Travertine is a form of Limestone, its appearance has a more marble effect compared to most limestone’s and is available in several neutral beige tones, as well dark beige, chocolate brown, gold/yellow, silver/grey and red. Travertine is known for having a honeycomb texture to the stone, which are tiny cavities in the stone itself so it is available in several different finishes.
Some of the most popular finishes for Travertine are –
Polished and filled – The top surface has a gloss finish and the cavities are filled with either a cement or resin based filler.
Honed and filled. – The top surface has a matt and smooth finish and the cavities are filled with either a cement or resin based filler.
Honed and unfilled – The top surface has a matt and smooth finish and the cavities are left unfilled.
Tumbled – The material has been tumbled to offer a natural riven surface finish and the cavities are usually left unfilled.
Travertine is usually found available in cut to size tiles, mosaics and slabs for bespoke project (vanities, special tile sizes, wall cladding etc), it is available in either vein cut or cross cut and this refers to how the block of stone is cut and effects the pattern of the movement on the face of the finished product.
There are 3 main countries where Travertine is quarried.
Italy – Some of the more expensive Travertine’s come from Italy, my personal favorite is Travertine Romano.
Iran – There are some stunning colours available from Iran in particular reds, greys and yellow’s. Unfortunately due to the international sanctions they have not been readily available on the market. Recently these sanctions were lifted and hopefully that means we will see much more Travertine coming from the Iranian quarries into Europe and the west.
Turkey – Probably the most popular source for travertine due to the large quantities quarried, lower cost relative to Italy and easier to ship from in comparison to Iran.
As travertine is a strong Limestone it is possible to be used outside as well as inside, combined with it being a very attractive material with many neutral beige and brown options it is a very popular material for both residential and commercial projects.
