Limestone Masonry (Marseille)

Calacatta is one of three types of marble quarried from the Apuan Mountains of Carrara in the Tuscan region of Italy, renowned for its striking, rich, thick veins on a brilliant white ‘field’ or background. One of the most expensive and highly sought after marbles due to its luxurious, elegant tones and grain, this classic Gold variant displays wide seams of blue-greys, silvers and sandy gold tones on a restrained, subtle and neutral white-beige field, characteristic of Calacatta marble. Commonly utilised in sculptures and decorative, extravagant interiors to bathrooms and finishes, Calacatta marble is classy, bright and dramatic. This rare, exclusive form is marble is however fairly porous, therefore requiring proper protection and sealing to prevent damage if specified for kitchen worktops, splashbacks or wet room areas, for example. Its soft nature also lends itself more to finishes and light foot traffic areas than flooring in high traffic areas as it damages and marks quicker and easier than most stones. It is often replaced by Quartzite, a Brazilian stone of similar appearance but higher durability, or can be imitated by Porcelain tiles for those who wish to specify a more economical, durable material which closely resembles the feel and aesthetic of Calacatta. The appeal of genuine marble is that each stone or slab is unique in pattern and colour, while marble develops a patina as it ages, maturing and bedding into its environment.