While these surfaces are heat resistant, they are not indestructible and should be protected with a table pad or trivet against very hot dishes or pots and pans directly from the range. Clean only with warm water and mild detergent or soap. Dragging items across the top will scratch the surface, exercise caution. Marble and Travertine Travertine and marble are rare and beautiful materials which nature has made practical and functional. They do however, require a reasonable amount of care to protect them against staining, discoloration and marring.
Many people think travertine and marble are almost impervious.
They are actually a form of intensely compacted calcium and magnesium carbonate compressed with sedimentary sand, in the case of travertine, or, in marble, melted together with other mineral elements and metals. These surfaces are more porous than they look, making them susceptible to staining by food, spilled liquids and other household materials, especially if left standing on the surface for some time. Liquids and other substances with even a mildly acidic content can discolor or otherwise damage polished marble or travertine surfaces. We advise the use of coasters under glasses when placing them on marble or travertine surfaces. Waxing should be done frequently after the table is in place.