Marble quarries in Delos Island (Greece): a geological characterization

Researchers have identified distinct geochemical and isotopic signatures that can distinguish Delian marble from other Mediterranean marbles used during antiquity. By conducting detailed geological mapping, mineralo-petrographic analysis, and isotopic characterization (δ13C and δ18O) of four quarries on Delos Island, the study revealed three categories of marble: coarse whitish to bluish marble, fine yellowish dolomitic marble, and marble with giant white and blue calcite crystals. The Maximum Grain Size, combined with oxygen and carbon isotopic ratios, showed strong potential for provenance studies, though trace element analysis could further refine this characterization. This finding significantly advances the understanding of ancient marble sourcing in Mediterranean archaeology.

Vettor, T., Sautter, V., Jolivet, L., Moretti, J.-C., & Pont, S. (2022). Marble quarries in Delos Island (Greece): a geological characterization. BSGF - Earth Sciences Bulletin, 193, 16. https://doi.org/10.1051/bsgf/2022014