Travertine rock has been popular since Roman times as a strong and decorative building material. Also called travertine marble, the rock forms around hot springs when limestone, or calcium carbonate, precipitates out of water and forms rock deposits. It formed much of the structure and surface of the famed Coliseum in Rome. Because of the strength and beauty of this stone it is popular to cover walls, counter tops in kitchens and bathrooms and as flooring. The characteristics of travertine tiles make them versatile and as beautiful as either granite or marble. However, processing can create different looks to travertine tile so homeowners should understand the different textures and types available before deciding on which tile they prefer for their new floors.
