As this process is continued, stalactites form from the ceiling. As the drops fall to the floor, deposits build forming stalagmites. When a stalactite growing down from the ceiling meets a stalagmite growing from the floor, a column or pillar is formed. Luray Caverns is an active cave where new deposits accumulate at the rate of one cubic inch in 120 years. Stalactites are formed often in a fluted and uniformed fashion from the ceiling down.
Stalagmites build with distinct mounds and ridges on their way toward the ceiling.
Dripstone, in addition to covering the ceilings and floors, is also abundant on cavern walls. An often more massive decoration is formed when the mineral bearing water spreads over the limestone walls or builds its deposits from a protruding edge. These crystalline deposits, or flowstone, form draperies and frozen waterfalls, veils and tents. All coloration in the caverns is natural, caused by the mineral content of the seeping ground water. White is the color of calcium carbonate in its pure form.