Carrara Vs. Calacatta Marble: What Is The Difference?

Carrara or Calacatta? People often mix up these two marbles, so I decided to create an ideabook to illustrate the differences. These terms are used interchangeably because both of these Italian marbles are very similar in appearance: white with gray veining. To add to the confusion, much of Calacatta comes from Carrara, Italy. In general, Carrara tends to be grayer with softer veining, while Calacatta is whiter with bolder more dramatic veining. There are additional subtle differences and once you know what to look for, you should be able to distinguish between Carrara and Calacatta. Let’s compare some Houzz examples:

Chelsea Atelier Architect, PC

Calacatta: The patterning on this one is predominately larger and thick.

Olga Adler

Carrara: Here, tile is used to frame a traditional fireplace. Carrara veining tends to be linear.

Garret Cord Werner Architects & Interior Designers

Calacatta: A slab with dramatic gray veining makes a stunning fireplace surround. Calacatta is rarer than Carrara and is considered a luxury stone.See Construction

Carrara: On this waterfall island countertop, the gray veining is small and fine.

LDa Architecture & Interiors

Calacatta: A vanity counter and large floor tiles make this master bath light and airy.

Flüff Designs & Decor

Carrara: Although this marble has some large and dramatic veining like Calacatta, it is grayer and also has many fine feathery lines.

Suzie Parkinson SÜZA DESIGN

Carrara: The backsplash has an overall gray tone and provides the color in this white kitchen.

Soorikian Architecture

Calacatta: Here you see the characteristic large patterning in a slab backsplash.

BAAN design

Carrara: Within Carrara and Calacatta marbles, there is a lot of variability. Here is a very white Carrara.

Red Barn Studio

Carrara: These floor tiles reveal a range of tones. 

Tip: When considering any stone tile, ask for at least 3 samples of the current lot to see the shade variation.

Elizabeth Dinkel

Calacatta: Some have really dark patterning. The heavy veining contrasts dramatically with the crisp white background in these floor tiles and shower slab.

Jason Ball Interiors, LLC

Calacatta Gold: This is a variation of Calacatta with gold mixed in. It works well with both cool and warm tones. There are many types of Calacatta.

Innovative Construction Inc.

Carrara: More readily available, Carrara marble is a beautiful and classic choice for bathrooms.

Peter Tow

Pop quiz: Can you tell what kind of marble this is? (See below for the answer.) 

Now that you know the difference, which one do you prefer? 

More: 
10 Great Alternatives to Granite Counters 
Alternatives to Granite Counters, Part II 

(Answer: Calacatta)