Used since Ancient times by the Romans, Carrara Marble was first quarried by the Cybo and Malaspina families, who ruled over Massa and Carrara, the northernmost tip of modern-day Tuscany. They were the first to regulate the marble mining industry by creating the Office of Marble in 1564. The rich history of this magnificent stone helps make it one of today’s most popular choices when it comes to marble.

Bianco Carrara Marble kitchen by Migonis Home; photo by Tess Fine via Houzz

Coveted throughout time, Carrara Marble was used for some of the most remarkable buildings in Ancient Rome, including the Pantheon. Also, the Basilica of Massa is built entirely of Carrara Marble. Many sculptures from the Renaissance, such as Michelangelo’s David, were carved from Carrara.

Though white or blue/grey are the colors one typically thinks of when it comes to Carrara, it actually can be found in many shades. The most common is Bianco Carrara, or standard Carrara. Though the word “Bianco” means white, Bianco Carrara is a light grey in color. It’s marked with a heavier grey vein, which may be darker or lighter, and may even cover the entire stone. Bianco Carrara is typically the least expensive of the Carraras, but offers a distinctive look with unique characteristics.

Like most popular marble shades, Carrara Marble is often imitated from other marble quarries around the world. For example, there is a similar white marble with darker veins that comes from Turkey. It’s a fine selection, but be aware that it’s only “true” Carrara marble if it comes from Carrara, Italy.

Come and check our inventory of both Bianco Carrara and White Carrara, newly in stock at both our showrooms. We’ll show you why the desire for this lovely material has stood the test of time.