Cultured marble is a mixture of marble dust with crushed limestone and fiberglass resin. Limestone does not undergo the metamorphic treatment of burial and heat and hence this material can be used like a real marble but can be processed in much quicker time.
Casting cultured marble depends on the amount of additive used that varies depending on the purpose. In case of finer products, the additive usage is reduced and for solid structure, the additives are used in excess so as to provide a shiny appearance.
The step by step procedure in preparing a structure of Powdered Marble involves the following steps.
Mix limestone and marble powder of equal mixtures thoroughly for two minutes. Scrape down the sides and stir contents up from the bottom with the stirring stick.
Stir continuously until you reach the desired color and consistency. Mixtures for highly detailed molds should be liquid; mixtures for simple shapes can be much thicker.
Pour the resin mix into the mold and lightly heat the exterior of the mold with a hair drier to prompt bubbles to rise to the surface.
Remove the casting from the mold. If the mold is rigid, twist the casting slightly to free it. If the mold is flexible, carefully peel it away from the casting.
The final product is fine grained, polished and then the minor details if any that needs to be added are carved over the outer surface.
Cultured Marble is expected to last a longer time. Also it values much lesser than the real marble which is an added advantage.
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