Specific Weight of Marble, Its Density, Features and Use
Marble is a transformed rock of white or shiny color. Marble stone consists mainly of calcites, calcium carbonates with a small amount of mineral impurities and organic compounds. Marble forms during the metamorphic process of structural changes in limestone rocks. The content of impurities affects the external structure and unique properties of marble. Many varieties of marble are colored in bright striped tones called cipollino. The impurity that occupies the larger percentage gives marble its characteristic color:
- Iron oxide - rusty, pink and red tones
- Iron sulfide - blue and black tones
- Iron silicate - green tones
- Iron hydroxides and carbonates, manganese compounds - brown colors
- Bitumens and graphites - blue, black and grayish shades
The pattern of marble stone depends on the cutting direction, and it becomes much brighter after polishing.
Specific Weight and Density of Marble
Marble weight and density should be calculated at the beginning of construction work. Correct measurement and the specific weight of marble help create a strong and durable structure. The main geometric and weight dimensions of marble and marble slabs are shown in the table.
| Marble | Marble weight per m2 | Marble weight per 1 m3 |
| Thickness 20 mm | 46 - 52 kg | 2300 - 2600 kg |
| Thickness 30 mm | 69 - 78 kg | 2300 - 2600 kg |
| Thickness 40 mm | 92 - 104 kg | 2300 - 2600 kg |
Marble is a hard and dense stone. Its hardness is 2,5-3 on the Mohs scale, and its density ranges from 2,3 to 2,6 g/cm³.
Marble is mainly used as a finishing material for interior and exterior spaces. It is also widely used to make marble tombstones, monumental sculptures and monuments. In finishing work inside and outside buildings, marble facing tiles are often used for fireplace masonry, fountain figures, stair flights and floor coverings. Crushed, ground and sawn stones can be used for such work. Marble chips and fine sand are used as fillers for concrete mixes, stone mosaics and plaster. Marble flour is used in agriculture.
In addition to construction, marble is used in electrical engineering: pure calcite marble is used when assembling instrument panels, dispatcher panels and distribution boards.
For facing work and tile laying, metamorphic rock of medium hardness is most often used:
- Marble stone.
- Marble limestones.
- Dolomites with a dense structure.
- Carbonate compounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the density of marble, its density, features and use be used for precise calculations?
The density and weight values for marble, its density, features and use in this article are reference values. They are suitable for preliminary estimates, but design, construction, production and other critical calculations should be checked against standards, material datasheets or measurement results.
Why can the actual weight of marble, its density, features and use differ from the table?
The actual weight of marble, its density, features and use depends on composition, moisture, temperature, porosity, fraction size, material grade and measurement conditions. Because of this, real values may differ from the average table data.
How do you calculate the mass of marble, its density, features and use from density?
For an approximate calculation, use the formula: mass = density × volume. If the density of marble, its density, features and use is given in kg/m³ and the volume is in m³, the result will be in kilograms.