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 | 51 - 54 kg | 2550 - 2700 kg |
| Thickness 30 mm | 76.5 - 81 kg | 2550 - 2700 kg |
| Thickness 40 mm | 102 - 108 kg | 2550 - 2700 kg |
Marble is a hard and dense stone. Its hardness is usually about 3-4 on the Mohs scale, and the density of most facing grades is roughly 2.55-2.70 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
How much does 1 m³ of marble weigh?
For most facing marble grades, the article uses a range of 2550-2700 kg/m³. The exact value depends on the quarry, mineral composition and porosity of the stone.
How much does 1 m² of marble slab weigh?
Weight depends on thickness: a 20 mm slab weighs about 51-54 kg/m², 30 mm about 76.5-81 kg/m², and 40 mm about 102-108 kg/m².
Why does marble density vary by type?
Marble can contain calcite, dolomite and mineral impurities. Different composition, porosity and structure lead to differences in density and slab weight.