Travertine

The stone observed in Rome from the fountains to the elegant palazzos and from the Colosseum to St Peter's Basilica is invariably travertine. This stone is found in greatest abundance where hot and cold springs have been active for millenia. The most famous travertine quarry is Bagni di Tivoli, 20km east of Rome where thick travertine deposits (90m) have been quarried for the last 2000 years and has been the structural stone of choice for ancient Roman buildings. In modern times the Lincoln Centre in New York and the ABC Entertainment Centre in Los Angeles have been clad with travertine from the Tivoli quarry. Although travertine appears porous with its gaps, bubbles and inclusions it is much less permeable than marble, limestone and some sandstones and therefore stronger.

Rural Stone Company are pleased to offer a range of travertine to suit a particular colour palate and desired processing techniques. Our latest project features the use of tumbled Tuscany travertine in cobblestones, capping, paving and cladding formats. Tumbled travertine has a rough, textured finish and is achieved by 'tumbling' the stone in a barrel with rocks, abrasive grit and lubricant. Travertine is composed of calcium carbonate and is therefore susceptible to acid-based products and requires sealing and the use of a specific natural stone cleaner to maintain its integrity.