In parallel to the technological and scientific development in the world, the life and living understanding of human beings have changed and is continuing to change.
These developments, together with the environment consciousness of human beings are inclining them to leave in more calm and natural mediums.
Recently in our country, especially at big cities and touristy zones, natural stones are being used in constructions and at the areas open to public. Primarily some concepts have to be defined clearly. Natural stone term is a general term that is used for a kind of rocks whose trade is made or not and for rocks that are found in nature as they are.” Commercial natural stones” should be understood as the rocks that are produced by legal permission and that are submitted to market after processing and/or without processing.

Under this definition the technical names and utilization areas of commercial stones are combined and they are grouped. As a further example, the meaning of marble in the past years and present has changed. Today all of the rocks that can be polished are processed as marble. . Together with the development of technology the rocks that can be polished are processed as marble and also being used as hard stone in literature. For this reason the marbles should be classified more detailed among each other. The granite, andesite, basalt etc type of rocks whether they are polished or not; should be taken separately and their details should be given by the utilization areas.

“Building structure” is a very general term and it can be understood as all kinds of rocks used in construction sector. Because from limestone, all kinds of marble and granite type of rocks are being manufactured for the construction sector and their trade is being made. For this reason as mentioned above; it could be suitable the use of a specific heading under the commercial natural stones under the construction materials main heading. The matter that can distinguish the building structures from marble is their polishing. For this reason if it is found appropriate non polishing natural coating and paving stones type of a heading can be given. Or within the scope of marble; in a separate sub heading, the topic of these natural stones can be investigated. This can be thought as ” marble or dimensioned natural stones”. With more clear explanations, the commercial stones used in construction foundations and walls, external coatings, garden walls, park and garden arrangements, pavement, road and pedestrian paving, in the restoration of historical artifact, mosque, minaret and hard surface landscape activities. It is apparent that our country has excellent and various commercial natural stones. In order to understand this looking at the historical artifact is sufficient.

Turkey being a heaven of natural stone, can be understood from the below mentioned examples. The listed stones belong to natural stones that we can have access, being able to deliver the market by buying the mining and that we use at our production and these stones constitute a very small portion of our underground wealth.

The natural stones are grouped with respect to their formation as follows:

EFFUSIVE STONES
They are the homogenous and isotropic structured stones that arise due to the exiting to surface and getting cold of magma in the deepness of lithosphere by various tectonics events. But according to the coldness speed at the formation place they are divided into three by the changes in the crystal structure.

INTERNAL EFFUSIVE STONES ( DEEPNESS MASSES):They have large crystals due to slow cooling: Siyenite, Gabbros, diorite.
OUTER EFFUSIVE STONES ( VOLCANIC MASSES):They have distribute crystal structure in vitreous paste due to fast cooling.
ORE STONES ( ORE MASSES):They have fine crystal or mix structure due to normal cooling. Porphyry, siyenite porphyry, Gabro porphyry, Diorite porphyry.

SEDIMINTARY STONES: It has formed due to the sedimentation in layers of the effusive and metamorphoses masses being fragmented by various atmospheric and tectonic events with heterogonous structure and fossil structure stones. The binding effect given by silicon increases its strength.
PHYSICAL SEDIMENTARY STONES:
They are found in distributed or combined with clay and sill; Sand, gravel, gre( sand stone).
CHEMICAL SEDIMENTARY STONES:
They are found in combination with carbonate, silica and sulfate: Travertine, concentrated limestone, gypsum.
ORGANIC SEDIMENTARY STONES:
They are found in combined with carbonate, silicon, fossil sediments: Kufeki, diatom.
METAMORPHOSIS STONES:
They are the stones that formed due to effusive and sedimentary stones are being subject to pressure, heat and various chemical events within the crust of earth and that display effusive and sedimentary mass properties with respect to originals: -Slate, hardpan, ganys, marble…

The properties of rock and rock groups that are being used as building structure.

Basalt: Basalt that is a magma tic rock with fine grains, intensive, hard, strong and dark colored (black) is the volcanic type of Gabro group. With its homogenous structure; from the view of being capable delivering smooth breaking surfaces is a wanted rock for production especially for the paving of pedestrian and roads as a dice stone. One of the most important properties is being formed in terrain in the form of prisms and columns.
Granite: It is hard rock that contains feldspar and quarts mineral of fine grain to coarse grain with magma tic origin. Feldspar is being capable of taking different colors according to its color. In addition to being medium and especially fine grains of granites; smooth breaking property is being looked for as building structure. The granites that deliver different properties according to regions; especially the grey colored, fine mineral grain ones are being use in the cobblestone production. The coarse mineral grain and different colored granites are mostly used in sheets by polishing like marble.
Andesite: From some types that are suitable from color, texture and hardness of the andesite rocks of volcanic origin are being used as cobblestone, paving stone, coating stone and architectural designs and in historical structures in the construction for different purpose. Besides its property of none absorbing water, does not dissolving in water, with solid texture and dark red color, the andesits that deliver smooth surface when broken and cut by the disc cutters have the requested properties . Andesits can be split up. The split andesits can cause problem with their color, hardness and strength types. The central Anatolia region (Ankara, Cankırı, Afyon) has made a big increase in the andesit production.
Sand stone: Sand stone is a hard rock formed as a result of sedimentation of silica or sand granules and with cementing. Especially the sand stones of fine granules and in grey color and that are enriched with silica are being preferred as cobblestone. The production in Turkey is in limited scale and oriented to domestic market.
Limestone: The limestone in colors of cream and close to white can be produced for both natural cobblestone and building structures with other purposes . It is being exported to abroad in small quantities.
Tufas: They are formed by the consolidation of volcanic ashes. Especially the riyolite-daside type Tufa rocks are a matter of interest. They may have quarts minerals within their structure in free form. The Tufas can display lamination like sedimentary rocks. Naturally different colors of Tufas especially white, purple, yellow-red patterned and with dominating green colors are being produced.
(Dexigner, slate, Arduvaz) : Arduaz which is a metamorphic rock contains the different composition of mud stone, silt stones, and volcanic ashes. The cleavage structure that forms due to metamorphism; causes the decomposition of these stones as a plate. Due to its very different mineral and compositions different colors and patters can be given. Arduaz that has a very high export potential are being used in roof coating, flooring, and landscape architecture purpose together with external coatings.
Diabase: Dibae which is a hard Arduvaz is being processed in both building structure and marble. As diabase formations of various regions of our country are known ( Tokat, Adana, Antalya) ,it is only being produced in Gemlik with limited capacity.

In addition to the widespread known building structures cyanide, diorite, gabro, gneiss, grovac, sist and there can be sand stones with different property. Other then this appearing of new building structures is always possible.
The magma tic originated rocks that could be used as granite, diorite, cyanide etc like marble can be found in the old crystalline massive. It is geologically known that in some continents; like North Europe, Sweden, Finland and South Africa there are formations in wide areas. The name of cyanide comes fro the Siena in Egypt; the pyramids are constructed from cyanides by the ancient Egyptians.

Marble is a metamorphic rock resulting from the metamorphism of limestone, composed mostly of calcite (a crystalline form of calcium carbonate, CaCO3). It is extensively used for sculpture, as a building material, and in many other applications. The word 'marble' is colloquially used to refer to many other stones that are capable of taking a high polish.

Travertine is a sedimentary rock. Travertine is a natural chemical precipitate of carbonate minerals; typically aragonite, but often recrystallized to or primarily calcite; which is deposited from the water of mineral springs (especially hot springs) or streams saturated with calcium carbonate. When pure, travertine is white, but often is brown to yellow due to impurities. When carbon dioxide-rich water percolates through rocks in limestone areas, the water dissolves the limestone and becomes saturated with it. When the water resurfaces later, the sudden drop in pressure and the change in temperature cause the water to release the carbon dioxide gas, much like fizzy drinks. The calcium carbonate then recrystallizes, often over minute underwater plants. The resulting rock is typically quite porous with numerous cavities. When exceptionally porous it is known as calcarious tufa.

Travertine stone is soft and delicate to look at. It breathes spaciousness. It's relaxed and soothing. The feeling is peaceful, tranquil, serene. It's a simple beauty. A casual formalness.
The classic aged look of tumbled stone will warm your home. A polished or honed travertine becomes a bit more formal but yet, it's still inviting. The soft earthy hues of this natural stone truly keep it in tune with nature.
Travertine stone is a form of limestone. It often forms near hot bubbly mineral rich springs. Gas bubbles become trapped and create a pitted surface on the stone. These pitted surfaces can be filled with an epoxy or dust resin. Filling the small holes and pits gives the travertine a more finished look. A refined beauty. The stone surface can also be left in its natural state with the small holes and pits unfilled. This is a warmer aged look which will acquire a beautiful patina over time. Leaving the stone unfilled will affect the durability. It will stain and attract dirt much easier than a filled travertine.

This is a calcareous stone. It is highly reactive to the acids found in lemons, vinegar, alcohol, etc. These acids will etch the stone by leaving marks and rings. Similar to limestone, travertine also varies in hardness, density, and porosity. Some travertine stones are harder than others.
It is usually a more porous stone than marble and needs to be sealed. If left untreated it will soak up liquids and water.
This is also a softer natural stone. It will scratch. It's not as soft as soapstone but it can't compete with the hardness of granite. Travertine comes in all different sizes, from small mosaics, to 36"x36" tiles, to large heavy slabs.
Travertine colors are in warm earthy tones. From the softest ivories to the palest creams. Rich shades of golden honey and silvery greens to deep mocha browns. Travertine never appears as one solid color. The color tones vary and veins or bands of contrasting color run throughout the stone. No two stones or tiles are alike.
If you plan to tile with travertine, lay out all the tiles first. This will help with the flow of color and veining. It will give you a feel for the stone.
What is travertine stone used for? It is used for interior walls such as backsplashes. There are travertine sinks, floors, mosaic tiles, statuary, fireplace surrounds, tub surrounds, vanities, and end tables. It's also used for accessories such as light switch plates, trim, vases, and coasters.

Travertine can be used for countertops.
The surface finishes for travertine stone vary. Not all travertines are capable of the polished/high gloss finish. Only the harder types. This stone will never achieve the same glossy finish as a granite will. A honed finish is the most popular type of finish. It's not a shiny and reflective finish. More of a matte or a sheen finish. Tumbled travertine makes the stone appear scuffed, weathered , or aged. Talk to your fabricator/installer about the different types of finishes they may provide.

Creating a unique look with travertine stone is simple. Mix and match with other natural stones for a more dramatic look and feel. Or, use it alone for sheer simplicity. This natural stone will give you years of beauty to enjoy. Using travertine stone is only limited by your imagination and a little common sense. Marble is an elegant natural stone rich with beauty. A truly unique look and feel. Images of extravagance and wealth come to mind. It's been used for centuries in palaces, temples, and for sculptures. It can be formal or casual. The surface of the stone can be polished or honed for a more formal look.

By tumbling or antiquing it, the look and feel becomes more comfortable and less formal. This stone was made to be admired. A one of a kind beauty.

Marble is formed from limestone. The heat and pressure in the earth's crust changes the texture and the composition of limestone to form large grains of calcite. This is called recrystallization. Many natural stones, including limestone and travertine, are referred to as marble because the surface of the stone can be polished to a high gloss finish. True marble is produced through the changes in the structure of the stone due to metamorphic events.

This is a calcareous stone consisting mainly of the mineral calcite. Marble is highly reactive to the acids found in vinegar, orange juice, and lemons. These acids will etch the stone and leave dull marks or rings.

Compared to granite, marble is a much a softer stone. It should not be cut on because it will scratch easily. But, it's not as soft as soapstone.

Marble is used for many things. Fireplace surrounds, flooring, sinks, vanities, closets, and for limited countertop use. It's also used for other items such as pillars, fountains, benches, architectural trim, and sculptures. Because it is a softer stone and easier to carve, items made of marble are usually ornate and very highly detailed.

This natural stone is best used where it won't to be subjected to frequent use and abuse.
There are many choices in marbles rich color tones. The purest form of marble is white.
There are creamy neutrals and warm subtle earth tones. Golden hues of yellow to jet blacks.
Dramatic veining with contrasting colors run throughout the marble giving it a distinctive look. Some marbles transmit light. The color and veining of each and every stone is unique.....

The surface of marble can be finished in a variety of ways. A polished surface finish will be reflective and shiny. This type of finish will help protect the surface of your stone by sealing open pores and making the stone less porous.
It can also be honed which is a matte like finish. It is not shiny or reflective like a polished finish is.
An antiqued or tumbled finish will weather or age the stone. The looks achieved with the surface finish can be casual or formal.
Marble is a beautiful and durable natural stone. Think of your lifestyle and where you want to use it before deciding on marble. It is a unique natural stone which has been used as a building material for hundreds of years. If you absolutely love the look of marble and are comfortable with the maintenance, choose marble. You’ll be glad you did.