What's the Difference Between Dolomite and Calcite Marble Tiles?
Marble is one of the most common natural stone used in decorating the homes. Marble tiles are known for their high durability and visual appeal. Installing marble tiles can the right choice for homes, offices, factories, hotels, hospitals, and many other places.
When searching for marble tiles online, you may have come across the terms calcite and dolomite marble tiles. Here we will explain the subtle differences between the two types of marble tiles that you can select for your home improvement project.
About Dolomite Marble Tiles
Dolomite marble tiles are mainly composed of calcium magnesium carbonate (CaMg(CO3))2. The mineral is commonly found in sedimentary rock. They can grow up to a large size and are available in different colors. Dolomite marble tiles are commonly available in white, grey, and pink colors.
About Calcite Marble Tiles
Calcite marble tiles appear similar to dolomite marble tiles. However, their composition is different. Calcite marble tiles mainly consist of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). The marble is abundantly found in three types of rocks viz metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary rocks. Due to the variation in the distribution and environments, you can find different types and colors of calcite marble tiles. They are available in brownish, yellow, pink, and white colors.
How Dolomite and Calcite Tiles are Different?
As you might have already noticed, the main difference between dolomite and calcite marble tiles is the chemical composition. Dolomite marble tiles are composed mainly of calcium magnesium carbonate, while calcite marble tiles contain calcium carbonate.
Another important difference between the two tiles that you should note is that dolomite marble tiles tend to be slightly harder than calcite marble tiles. This means that dolomite marble tiles are more scratch-resistant as compared to calcite marble tiles.
In addition, calcite tends to react more quickly with acids. They quickly form carbon dioxide bubbles on contact with the acidic solution. On the other hand, dolomite marble tile reacts weakly, and produce carbon dioxide bubbles more slowly when an acidic solution is spilled on the surface.
You can perform a simple test on a marble tile sample to determine whether it is dolomite or calcite. Consider dropping a 1 ml HCL on the surface of the marble sample. If the marble produces instant fizz or bubbling, it's probably calcite marble tile. However, if there is no or slow formation of bubbling, the tile is probably dolomite marble tile.
For more information about dolomite marble tiles, or any other types of tiles for your home and office, you can contact WholeTiles.com. We can help you select a perfect tile that meets your design preference and budget.