What is Ambaji White Marble?

About Ambaji White Marble:

• It is a type of marble known for its stunning white appearance and unique natural patterns.
• It is named after the town of Ambaji in the state of Gujarat, where it is predominantly quarried. 
• It is also known as Amba White Marble and Ambe White Marble.
• It is characterized by its pristine white color, which often features subtle gray or beige veining.
  • The veins can vary in intensity, ranging from fine and delicate to bold and pronounced, giving each slab a distinct and individualistic appearance.
  • These variations occur naturally due to the presence of minerals and impurities during the marble formation process.
• It has very long-lasting shine and durability. 
• The smooth and polished surface of the marble adds to its appeal and sophistication.
• It is widely used for luxury architectural projects, sculptures, and monuments.

Key Facts about Marble:

• Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism.
• It is composed primarily of the mineral calcite (CaCO3) and usually contains other minerals, such as clay minerals, micas, quartz, pyrite, iron oxides, and graphite.
• Under the conditions of metamorphism, the calcite in the limestone recrystallizes to form a rock that is a mass of interlocking calcite crystals.
• A related rock, dolomitic marble, is produced when dolostone is subjected to heat and pressure.
• The transformation of limestone into marble usually occurs at convergent plate boundaries, where large areas of Earth's crustare exposed to the heat and pressure of regional metamorphism.
• Some marble also forms by contact metamorphism when a hot magma body heats adjacent limestone or dolostone. This process also occurs at convergent plate boundaries.

Q1: What is Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A geographical indication or GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Geographical Indications are part of the intellectual property rights that comes under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. In India, Geographical Indications registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Geographical indications are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.

Source: Gujarat: Ambaji marble gets GI tag, traders in the town expect it will boost business