Marble is a metamorphic rock (rock transformed by heat and pressure) created from sedimentary carbonate rocks, particularly limestone or dolomite rock. It can take on a high polish and is commonly used in architecture and sculpture.
Pure white marble is the result of metamorphism of a very pure (silicate-poor) limestone or dolomite. The characteristic swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties are usually due to various mineral impurities such as clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert which were originally present as grains or layers in the limestone.
