What is the difference between marble and marmarite?

In architecture and interior design, the selection of suitable materials plays a significant role in both beauty and durability. Natural stone remains one of the most sought-after choices in this field. Among the exquisite natural stones used in construction are marble (onyx) and marble (marmarite), which are frequently mistaken for one another. However, these two stones have distinct differences. This article examines the key distinctions between marble (onyx) and marmarite, enabling you to make a more informed choice for your projects and fully appreciate the beauty and quality of these stones.

Comparison Table: Marble vs. Marmarite

Feature	Marble (Onyx)	Marble (Marmarite)
Type of Stone	Metamorphic	Sedimentary-Metamorphic
Color	White, gray, black, green, purple, yellow, and red	White, gray, pink, yellow, and green
Light Transmission (Transparency)	Yes	No
Texture	Transparent and glassy, softer than marmarite, finer and more regular veining	Opaque texture, with irregular and twisted veining and color spots
Resistance to Pressure, Scratches, and Abrasion	Less	More
Acid Resistance	More	Less
Heat Resistance	More	Less
Applications	Stone products, flooring, and wall coverings inside buildings	Interior flooring, facades, and internal walls, elevator stone, and sanitary facilities
Advantages	Unique beauty and transparency, thermal insulation	High resistance to wear, abundance of mines, low price, high polishability
Disadvantages	High price, weakness against scratches and abrasion	Lack of resistance to cold and water, color change under sunlight

Differences Between Marble and Marmarite in Terms of Formation

Scientifically, marmarite refers to carbonate stones that develop a distinct crystalline texture due to crystallization induced by heat and metamorphic pressure. It primarily consists of calcite and dolomite minerals, either separately or in combination. In the stone industry, all limestone or dolomitic stones formed from the compression of calcium carbonate deposits under the pressure of overlying layers that can be polished are classified as marmarite, regardless of whether they have undergone metamorphosis. However, when marmarites undergo metamorphic transformation, they become marble. Marble is a metamorphic rock drived from the metamorphism of limestone. When sedimentary rocks such as limestone are exposed to intense heat and pressure, they transform into metamorphic rocks such as marble.

Differences Between Marble and Marmarite in Terms of Appearance

In terms of appearance, both marble and marmarite offer a wide range of colors, however they differ in texture and transparency. Marmarite has a more opaque and matte texture, characterized by dark and light veining and spots. In contrast, marble is distinguished by its high transparency and ability to transmit light, a result of its large and distinct mineral crystals. Additionally, marble possesses a smoother, more glass-like texture, with veining and patterns that appear more precise and orderly. This distinction in texture and translucency is a key differentiating factor between marble and marmarite.

Differences Between Marble and Marmarite in Terms of Application

Renowned for its luxurious and unique appearance, marble is often used in elegant and opulent spaces. It is widely utilized in artistic creations such as sculptures and vases, as well as in wall cladding, flooring, and interior facades. Due to its high cost, marble is primarily reserved for high-end construction projects and religious sites.

In contrast, marmarite, with its more affordable price and favorable technical properties, is a popular choice for various buildings. It is particularly valued in interior design for flooring and wall cladding and is ideal for high-traffic areas such as hallways and public spaces due to its superior resistance to wear and scratches. Depending on its design and color, marmarite is commonly used for flooring, interior facades, elevator cladding, and sanitary facilities in residential, commercial and administrative buildings. It is especially favored in luxury venues like hotels and banquet halls.

East Mahyar marmarite (marble), with its deep black base and occasional brownish hues, features irregular white and golden veins, giving it a sophisticated and luxurious appearance. This makes it a preferred choice for high-end projects and commercial or administrative centers.

Differences Between Marble and Marmarite in Terms of Resistance

In general, neither marble nor marmarite offers the same level of durability as stones like granite. As softer stones, they are cut in quarries and factories using specialized soft saws. However, their softness does not imply fragility. During processing, adhesives, resins or epoxies are applied to enhance their durability. when comparing their resistance properties, marmarite exhibits greater resistance than marble, offering superior resistamce to impact, scratches, and acids. Conversly Marble has higher heat resistance, making it an excellent thermal insulator. Both stones are susceptible to acid damage; however, marmarite is more reactive and prone to surface damage when exposed to acidic substances,often resulting in foaming and staining. while Marble is also vulnerable to acid-related discoloration, its reaction is generally less severe than that of marmarite.

Difference Between Marble and Marmarite in Terms of Price

Marmarite is generally more affordable than marble due to the following factors:

• Formation Process: Marmarite forms as a sedimentary limestone and does not undergo significant metamorphism. This stone is readily available in various regions worldwide, which contributes to its lower extraction costs. In contrast, marble is formed through a metamorphic process that involves high temperature and pressure, necessitating specific geological conditions, which renders it rarer and more valuable.
• Durability: Owing to its layered structure and higher hardness, marmarite offers greater resistance to wear and scratches. These characteristics make marmarite suitable for both general and high-traffic applications, thereby making it an economically viable option.
• Beauty and Transparency: Marble is esteemed as a luxury stone distinguished by its transparency, luster, and unique veining patterns. These attributes make it the material of choice for high-end and prestigious spaces, contributing to its elevated price.
• Processing Costs: The relatively simpler and less intricate structure of marmarite results in lower costs associated with cutting, polishing, and installation. Additionally, the greater abundance of marmarite contributes to its affordability in comparison to marble. In contrast, marble’s crystalline structure and the precision required in its cutting and finishing processes lead to higher extraction and processing costs. Furthermore, marble's heightened sensitivity to scratches and staining requires specialized care, further elevating its maintenance expenses.

 

Conclusion

This articlehas examined the distinctions between marble and marmarite, highlighting the key characteristics that differentiate the two. Given its favorable physical and chemical properties, as well as its cost-effectiveness, marmarite is frequently selected by contractors and designers for use in construction and interior design projects. The East Mahyar Marmarite (marble), characterized by its black base color and striking white and golden veining, presents an elegant and luxurious appearance, often used making it a popular choice for luxury projects, commercial establishments, and administrative centers. Discerning buyers of marmarite can purchase various grades of this premium stone at competitive prices from reputable and direct sources, such as the Oxygen Stone Company.