Travertine is a a light-coloured form of limestone or porous calcite formed through the rapid sedimentation of calcium carbonate, especially at the mouth of a hot spring. In limestone caves, it forms stalactites and stalagmites. Gas bubbles become trapped in the layers of sediment and create a pitted effect on the surface of the cut stone. These pitted surfaces can be left exposed or may be filled with an epoxy or dust resin.

Travertine can be effectively polished to a smooth, shiny finish and comes in a variety of colors from grey to coral-red.

It is most commonly used as tiles for residential and commercial interiors and exteriors, as well as for decorative wall claddings and splashbacks in kitchens and bathrooms.

Travertine can be cut in two ways: cross-cut and vein cut. Cross cut travertine is cut with the grain of the stone bedding which makes the appearance more uniform in colour and texture. Vein cut travertine is cut across the layers of stone bedding which give a tiger-striped appearance.