1. Types of Marble for Slabs & Tiles
Marble comes in various colors and patterns. Popular types include:- Carrara (Italy) – White/gray, classic look
- Calacatta (Italy) – High-end, bold veining
- Statuario (Italy/Greece) – Bright white with dramatic veins
- Emperador (Spain/Turkey) – Brown, elegant for flooring
- Crema Marfil (Spain) – Beige, warm tones
- Makrana (India) – Pure white (used in the Taj Mahal)
2. Marble Slabs vs. Tiles
| Feature | Slabs | Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large (6ft x 10ft+) | Smaller (12x12”, 24x24”, etc.) |
| Installation | Custom cuts, professional needed | Easier DIY installation |
| Cost | Higher (premium look) | More affordable |
| Best For | Countertops, feature walls | Flooring, backsplashes |
3. Where to Buy Bulk Marble
- Local Stone Suppliers – Check stone yards near you.
- Online Marketplaces – Alibaba, StoneContact, Houzz.
- Direct from Quarries – Italy, Turkey, India, Brazil.
- Wholesale Distributors – MSI, Arizona Tile, Daltile.
4. Price Range (Bulk Purchase Discounts)
- Slabs: $40 – $200/sq.ft (depends on rarity)
- Tiles: $5 – $50/sq.ft (polished, honed, or tumbled)
- Bulk Discounts: Often 10-30% off for large orders (e.g., 500+ sq.ft).
5. Key Considerations Before Buying
✔ Grade (Commercial, Standard, Premium)✔ Finish (Polished, Honed, Leathered)
✔ Thickness (Slabs: 2cm/3cm, Tiles: 10mm-20mm)
✔ Sealing Required? (Some marbles stain easily)
✔ Edge Treatment (For countertops: eased, beveled, bullnose)
6. Shipping & Handling
- Slabs: Require professional handling (risk of breakage).
- Tiles: Easier to ship but still fragile.
- Importing? Check duties & logistics (container load vs. LTL).
