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To Dye or Stain Marble

Marble may be stained or dyed of various colors by applying their solutions to the stone made sufficiently hot to make the liquid just simmer on the surface. Success in the application of the colors requires considerable experience. By their skillful use a pleasing effect, both of color and grain, may be produced. The following are the substances usually employed for this purpose: zinc, a fine blue color; sulphuret of antimony gives a less greenish blue than the zinc, but with much smoke; amber, resin and common salt afford a yellow fire. Lycopodium burns with a rose color and a magnificent flame, &c.