Travertine is everywhere right now \u2014 in the magazines, in the design stores, on the most beautiful tabletops on Instagram. But the stone is anything but a passing trend: the Romans built the Colosseum from it. Here is everything you need to know about the natural stone that has travelled from ancient baths to the modern, calm home.<\/p>\n
Travertine is a natural limestone formed at warm, mineral-rich springs. As the spring water meets the air, calcium is deposited layer by layer \u2014 a process that takes thousands of years. The characteristic pores appear where gas bubbles and plant matter were trapped in the deposits. Today the stone is quarried primarily in Italy (Tivoli gave it its name), Turkey and Iran.<\/p>\n
Because travertine is created by nature\u2019s own processes, no two pieces are alike. The pores, veins and warm tones \u2014 from cream to sand to honey \u2014 vary from block to block, even from centimetre to centimetre. Not as a flaw. As a reminder that nature never repeats itself.<\/p>\n
The stone\u2019s matte, tactile surface makes it perfect for the places where the eye rests: a tray on the entryway table<\/a>, a bowl as a centrepiece<\/a>, coasters<\/a> that handle warm cups and everyday life. Travertine pairs beautifully with natural materials \u2014 linen, oak, ceramics and wool.<\/p>\n Travertine is a limestone and therefore sensitive to acid: citrus, wine and vinegar can etch the surface. Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth, avoid abrasive sponges, and let the stone dry after contact with water. Over time the surface develops a quiet patina \u2014 most people find the stone grows more beautiful with age.<\/p>\nHow to care for travertine<\/h2>\n
Travertine at AORI<\/h2>\n