How To Tell If Marble Is Good Quality? 5 Things To Look Out For

5 Ways To Tell If Marble Is Good Quality

When it comes to marble, quality is key to creating a stunning interior design. Here are the 5 main factors to look out for when selecting the best marble for your project.

1. Scratches & Chips

One of the best ways to assess the quality of your marble tile or marble slab is to examine its surface. Cheaply processed or cut marble slabs will have knife marks marring the surface of the stone, creating scratches.

Whether it has a glossy or matte finish, high-quality marble will have a smooth, flat surface and refined edges. A few small chips or scratches are normal for any marble production, but be on the lookout for a large amount or any particularly large scratches.

2. Subtle Imperfections

Although it may seem counterintuitive, high-quality, authentic marble tiles will have the subtlest imperfections and irregularities because they are all-natural. These imperfections can be inconsistent and long streaks of veining on the surface of the natural stone. In contrast, marble-look porcelain tile, which is artificial, will have a more flawless and symmetrical appearance with less depth and dimension than natural marble.

3. Coloring & Lustre

Natural, high-quality marble will have a natural luster, a glow from within that looks stunning in natural lighting. This glow is what makes marble stunning, and artificial stone can’t replicate it. Additionally, make sure the marble has an organic tone and coloring. Any particularly vivid or ostentatious colors are a sure sign the marble tile is fake or not 100% pure. Although natural marble comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, and even green, it will always have an organic, subtle tone.

4. Tile & Slab Thickness

Examining the thickness, known as calibration, of marble slabs or tiles is an important way to ensure their quality. Low-quality marble will typically be cut very thinly, which makes it more susceptible to breaks or chips. Some low-quality marble will have a fiberglass or epoxy mesh backing, which makes it difficult to install properly.

All the tiles should be properly calibrated at the same thickness and size. A high-quality, durable marble tile, slab, or mosaic will be thick enough to be properly installed and durable with a smoothly cut edge.

5. Tile Filler & Fragments

The final factor to assess when evaluating the quality of marble is to check for any signs of chips or fillers used to repair gaps in broken tiles. A high-quality marble tile with a smooth, unmarred surface. Tile filler stands out because it usually creates a dull spot on the tile’s surface.

Classic & Timeless Types of Marble

After understanding the key characteristics of marble slabs and tiles, it is important to further your understanding of this stunning natural stone by learning about the main types of marble and their key characteristics.

Carrara Marble

White Carrara Marble is one of the most popular and timeless choice when it comes to interior design. This stunning marble originates from Carrara, Italy, and is known for its white surface and light grey veining running throughout. It has a soft, diffused look characterized by its soft and frequent veining. When it comes to marble interior design ideas, Carrara marble is usually a top choice for good reason.

Calacatta Gold Marble

Calacatta Gold Marble has a more bold design than Carrara Marble because of its defined veining with a hint of warmth. This marble is a great choice for a luxurious flooring tile design and works well with neutral tones. While Calacatta Gold has warm, gold-toned veins, there are other types of Calacatta Marble, including Calacatta Green Marble or Calacatta Bella Marble, which has a slightly cooler tone.

Bianco Dolomiti Marble

Bianco Dolomiti Marble is another classic type of marble that is commonly found throughout Mediterranean homes. This marble originates from Turkey and has a smooth white surface with subtle light gray veining. It has a smoother and more uniform appearance than Carrara or Calacatta Marble, making it ideal for minimalist designs.

Diana Royal Marble

Diana Royal Marble is another Turkish marble. It has a soft, beige tone that adds warmth to spaces and pairs well with wood tones. It has a creamy tone and diffused veining pattern. If you are seeking a natural stone countertop with a warmer hue, then this marble is a stunning choice.

Aspen White Marble

Aspen White Marble has a bright white surface with minimal veining. It has a natural depth and dimension that looks stunning in monochromatic white spaces and modern industrial interiors.

Black Marble

Black Marble has a deep, black surface with interspersed flecks of white veining. Absolutely stunning, this marble is available as tiles, slabs, or marble mosaics. It suits contemporary, sleek spaces with metal accents. Consider elevating your kitchen by installing black marble for a marble kitchen island design.

Skyline Marble

Skyline Marble is one of the most unique types of marble available, known for its distinctive streaks of veining. It has a soft white surface and alternating warm and cool-toned veining, which creates an alluring design.

Calacatta Picasso Marble

Calacatta Picasso Marble stands out as a symbol of luxury and refinement, renowned for its striking, bold veining, and rich, artistic patterns that evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Sourced from premium quarries, this high-quality marble is celebrated for its durability, polished finish, and unique blend of white, gold, and gray tones—making it a coveted choice for sophisticated interiors.

Conclusion

Marble is one of the most popular choices for interior flooring, backsplash, and countertop designs, but it can be difficult to ensure you are choosing the right, high-quality marble for your project.

After understanding the pros and cons of natural stone tiles, look out for scratches, chipping, and dullness on the surface of the marble. It is also important to consider the thickness of the tile and whether it has been professionally cut and processed. Ultimately, every type of marble is different, so you should be aware of the characteristics of the marble type you are looking for and whether it meets expectations.