Natural stone tables bring timeless elegance to interior spaces, with travertine and marble standing as popular choices among discerning homeowners.
They’re both timeless, durable, and stylish, but they’re also quite different in how they look and feel. Some people prefer the soft, earthy tones of travertine, while others are drawn to the polished elegance of marble.
1. Design and Aesthetics
Travertine: Natural and Textured Beauty
Travertine tables feature a distinctive limestone composition formed near mineral springs. It has a textured look, full of natural pits and holes that give it a raw, organic feel.
With earthy tones like beige, ivory, walnut, and gold, a travertine table adds warmth and character to any space. It works beautifully in rustic, Mediterranean, and even modern interiors.
Marble: Classic Elegance and Luxury
Marble tables are all about classic elegance and timeless luxury. It’s known for its smooth, polished surface and bold veining, which can really make a statement.
While white marble is the most popular, it also comes in black, green, pink, and other rich colors. Marble tables bring a stylish, high-end feel to any room, making them a great fit for modern, formal, or elegant spaces.
2. Price Comparison
Marble tables generally command premium prices, with small side tables starting around $800-1,200, coffee tables ranging from $1,500-3,000, and dining tables typically costing $2,500-8,000+ depending on size, marble type, and craftsmanship.
Travertine offers a more accessible price point, with side tables available from $400-800, coffee tables between $800-1,800, and dining tables ranging from $1,200-4,000. This price differential reflects marble's higher extraction costs, greater demand, and typically more complex finishing requirements.
Read our guide on How much does Marble Tables cost
3. Maintenance and Ease of Cleaning
Travertine:
Travertine is more absorbent than marble, so it can soak up spills quickly if it’s not sealed. To keep it protected, regular sealing is important. Cleaning is simple—just use mild soap and water. Avoid anything acidic like vinegar or lemon juice, as it can damage the surface.
Marble:
Marble is a bit less porous than travertine but can still stain if spills are left sitting. It also needs sealing to keep its smooth, glossy finish looking good. A damp cloth and mild soap are all you need to clean it, but steer clear of acidic cleaners, as they can leave dull spots or marks.
Read our Guide on How to Clean Marble Tables
4. Weight and Portability
Travertine is generally lighter than marble, which makes it easier to move and set up. If you like rearranging your space or plan to move your furniture often, a travertine table is a more practical choice. It's easier to handle and less of a hassle during installation.
Marble, on the other hand, is heavier and denser. While that means it’s harder to move, it also makes the table feel solid and long-lasting. Its weight adds stability, which is great for permanent setups or high-traffic areas where you want the table to stay firmly in place.
5. Durability
Travertine and marble are both strong natural stones, but they have different strengths. Travertine is a bit softer, which means it can scratch or chip more easily. However, when it’s sealed properly and cared for, it becomes much more resistant and can last for decades. Its slightly weathered, rustic look only adds to its charm over time.
Marble is harder and more durable overall, which makes it better at handling daily wear. Still, it’s sensitive to acids and can get etched or stained if spills aren’t wiped up quickly. With the right care and maintenance, marble tables stay beautiful for years and make a solid long-term investment—especially for luxurious, high-end interiors.
Read our Guide on How to take care of Marble Tables
Marble vs Travertine for Coffee Tables
Travertine coffee tables are perfect if you're going for a warm, natural vibe. The stone’s soft, earthy tones—like beige and ivory—make it easy to pair with rustic, Mediterranean, or laid-back modern interiors. Travertine is also lighter than marble, so it’s easier to shift around your living space when needed. Its raw texture adds character, and with proper sealing, it holds up well over time.
Marble coffee tables bring a sense of luxury and sophistication. With a polished surface and dramatic veining, they often become the focal point in a room. Whether it’s white, black, or even green marble, these tables suit elegant and modern spaces beautifully. Just keep in mind—they're heavier and need more upkeep to protect against stains and scratches.
If you want something grounded and organic, go for travertine. If you're after a sleek, upscale centerpiece, marble is the better pick.
Marble vs Travertine for Dining Tables
Travertine dining tables bring a warm, inviting feel to dining spaces with their earthy tones. They suit casual or family-friendly dining rooms, offering both beauty and practicality. While they need to be sealed to protect against stains, they create a cozy atmosphere and are perfect for daily meals.
Marble dining tables exude luxury and elegance, making them ideal for formal dining rooms or upscale decor. The polished surface and bold veining make a striking statement, but marble requires extra care to prevent damage from acidic foods. It's perfect for creating a sophisticated focal point in your dining space.
For a practical, family-oriented dining area, travertine is a great choice. If you want to add a touch of high-end glamour and elegance to your dining decor, marble is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is Travertine Considered High-End?
A: Yes, travertine is also a high-end product that is used in high-end residential and commercial use. While it is less costly than marble in general, high-end travertine tables are a high-end product.
Q: What is the Most Popular Travertine Color?
A: The most popular travertine colors are beige, ivory, walnut, and gold. These neutral tones are versatile and blend easily with interior decor from classic to contemporary.
