Carrara marble and Calacatta marble are very popular types of marble that are known for their dazzling beauty and elegance. They possess a unique and unforgettable sense of sophistication that is impossible to replicate, and they can bring that touch to your home too.
While both of these styles share some similarities, they also have a lot of differences that set them apart and might make one of them the right choice for you. Understanding these differences will help you make the right choice for your and your home’s aesthetic and practical needs. Keep reading to learn more about all of the differences between Carrara and Calacatta marble.
Origin and rarity
Carrara marble is quarried in the Carrara region of Tuscany, Italy. The Carrara region is known for producing some of the finest quality marble in the world. Similar to other types of marble, Carrara marble is formed from limestone primarily after going through a process called metamorphism. This process happens under immense pressure and heat over millions of years.
On the other hand, calacatta marble is quarried from the Apuan Alps in Italy. Calacatta and Carrara marble are quarried in the same general region. However, they are sourced from different quarries. Calacatta is a rarer type of marble, and therefore it is more sought-after. It is known for its unique and distinctive veining patterns and very light purity levels.
Carrara marble is more widely available, easier to find, and less expensive compared to Calacatta. It can be used in both residential and commercial spaces for usages ranging from countertops to flooring or other decorative purposes.
Calacatta, however, is considered to be more luxurious due to its limited availability, making it harder to get. Therefore, it is more expensive, and it is most commonly used in high-end projects.
Appearance and veins
One of the main points that differentiates Carrara and Calacatta is their appearance and color options.
Carrara marble often supports a soft, light gray cream-colored background with very subtle and understated veining patterns that also have a light grayish tone. The veins have a light, smokey appearance that resembles feathers.
This creates a sophisticated and muted look. The veins will appear more linearly, having a consistent and uniform quality to them. They may range from fine to medium thickness and tend to blend into the background, especially if the veins appear to be transparent, lacking opacity.
On the contrary, calacatta is known for its bold veins that appear very eye-catching and dramatic on the stark white background. The veining is commonly thick and demands attention. Moreover, the veins can have a wider range of colors, such as gold, gray, or taupe. This distinctive and unique look is one of the most recognizable characteristics of Calacatta marble.
Calacatta exhibits irregular veins that can create a gorgeous contrast with the smooth background due to their sporadic nature. The veins add visual interest and depth to the stone.
Durability and maintenance
Both Carrara and Calacatta marble are similar in terms of their durability and the necessary maintenance.
As they are natural stones with a lower hardness level on the Mohs Scale, they might be susceptible to blemishes such as stains, scratches, or etching if they aren’t properly taken care of and protected. Due to its higher purity level, Calacatta marble can be slightly more susceptible to such occurrences, however, the difference isn’t enough to be noticeable.
To protect both Carrara and Calacatta marble, you need to regularly reseal them. The sealant will prevent liquids, dirt, and debris from seeping into the stones thus causing stains or bacterial growth to form over time.
Moreover, the sealant will act as a barrier between the stone and any sharp object or sudden pressure, thus preventing scratching the surface of the countertops or floors. The most common recommendation for resealing the marble is six months, however, depending on how often and how harshly they are used, the time may need to be shorter or longer. A good way to gauge it is to observe the shininess of the surface. Once the shine has started to dull it is time to reseal.
Application and Flexibility
Carrara and Calacatta marble types are similar in that they are both highly versatile materials that can be used in a variety of applications including but not limited to countertops, flooring, wall cladding, kitchen islands, backsplashes, and more. However, that isn’t to say that both of the materials can be used in all of the same ways for the same purposes.
As Carrara has a softer nature, it is the ideal choice for areas that don’t get a lot of wear and tear. Moreover, it blends in perfectly with both sleek and minimal designs and traditional and charming interiors. Calacatta is the perfect choice where a statement is required. It is bold and creates a luxurious centerpiece. It can be used for many decorative and functional purposes as it combines versatility with beauty.
The neutral color palette both of these options possess makes them highly flexible and able to fit in with many different design options and styles. They add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space they are installed in as their light gray, cream, and beige tones can subtly blend in and elevate all styles and decorations. They fit in with contemporary and traditional designs.
Longevity
Both Calacatta and Carrara marble bold similar advantages of timeless beauty and longevity. This makes them very enduring choices for design applications and architectural structures as they won’t go out of style over time or lose their relevance.
Marble is very long-lasting and it can withstand the test of time as long as it is maintained and taken care of. With proper sealing and a regular cleaning schedule, marble surfaces, and decorations can retain their original beauty and appeal for decades. Moreover, the unique characteristics that marble possesses, such as its ability to stay cool even in tropical climates, add to its value, making it highly practical and sought-after through different trend cycles.
In conclusion, Carrara and Calacatta marble share some similarities such as their composition and their place of origin, however, they have even more differences that set them apart from each other. Their appearance, patterns, rarity, cost, and application areas are only some of the differences that have between them. Knowing these differences will help you make the right decision in your journey to achieving your dream house.
If you are interested in implementing Carrara or Calacatta marble in your house, or if you simply want to learn more about them, visit Paragon Exotic Stones’ website. Their wide range of marble options makes them one of the best sources for home improvement projects and their expert team is highly knowledgeable and experienced in the industry. Visit their website or reach out to their professional customer care team for further information or a personal consultation.
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