Limestone information
Limestone information
By: Joey Lewitin - [home]
Posted 12/03/04
Limestone is a sedimentary rock, which means that it was composed of older rocks or minerals. The nature of its formation causes it to be part of some of the most elaborate cavern structures in the world, including the Carlsbad Caverns, Luray Caverns, and Mammoth Caves.
Chiefly it is composed from calcium carbonate. If the limestone is pure it will be a white color. The different colors that can be seen in limestone come from impurities in its structure. An iron oxide impurity will make the stone yellow, red, or brownish. Carbon impurities will turn the stone blue, grey, or black. The nature of these impurities means that limestone could come in hundreds of differently colored combinations, and each stone will look different from others, even in the same cave.
Chalk is one form of limestone, although softer then usual. Marl is another, a form of fertilizer. Marble is formed by the metamorphisms of limestone. Limestone is also used as a flux in the extraction of iron, as a source of lime, and in certain concretes. It is widely used in flooring, counters, and in home furnishings including clocks, hot plates, tables and more.
Different sealing treatments can be used on limestone to protect it from dirt. These chemicals often bring out the natural colors. Olive oil can be used, although it is not nearly as effective at sealing the stone as a real chemical sealer and finish combination would be. Check with your local stone dealer for chemical treatments for this stone.
Joey is an author and webmaster who runs a site called http://pebblez.com that offers Decorative stone wall clocks and rustic stone home decor gifts and furnishings.
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