The rock travertine is a natural chemical precipitate of carbonate minerals. It is mainly formed by aragonite that is crystallized or primarily calcite, which is deposited from the water of mineral springs or streams saturated with calcium carbonate. When pure, travertine is white, but often is brown to yellow due to impurities. When carbon dioxide-rich water percolates through rocks in limestone areas, the water dissolves the limestone and becomes saturated with it. When the water resurfaces later, the sudden drop in pressure and the change in temperature cause the water to release carbon dioxide gas, much like fizzy drinks. The calcium carbonate then crystallizes, often over minute underwater plants. The resulting rock is typically quite porous with numerous cavities. When exceptionally porous, it is known as calcareous tuff. Largest travertine deposits exist at Tivoli, Italy, near Rome. In fact, travertine derives its name from this town. Tivoli was known as ‘Tibur` in ancient Roman times. The ancient name for the stone meant ‘Tibur stone`, which has been corrupted to travertine. Detailed studies of the Tivoli travertine deposits revealed diurnal and annual rhythmic banding and lamina, which have potential use in geochronology. Travertine is especially popular in architecture, and many landmarks around the world, especially in North America and Europe, are made primarily of this material. Since many buildings in Kingston, Ontario, Canada were constructed from it, the city was nicknamed the ‘Travertine city`. It is readily available and relatively easy to cut into blocks or more elaborate carving. It is also long-lasting and stands up well to exposure. However, it is a very heavy material, making it impractical for tall buildings. It is also quite expensive. Travertine is most commonly used in architecture as travertine floor tiles.
Travertine Floor Tiles are usually cut in to thick slabs and are fixed on floors as well as walls. The entire first floor of the UCLA Medical Center has thick travertine walls and floors made of travertine floor tiles.
Travertine Floor Tiles are also used for paving patios and garden paths.
Travertine Floor Tiles are sometimes known as travertine limestone and sometimes as travertine marble. It is said that most royal palaces in the world have some form of limestone or travertine floor tiles.