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By Beth Cunningham 

Did you know that some of the finest marble in the world is mined right here in Alabama? Alabama Marble Mineral & Mining Co. (AM3 Stone) is the exclusive purveyor of Alabama Marble, and they’re headquartered here in the Birmingham area. Keep reading to learn more about this state treasure—the facts might just surprise you.

1. Alabama Marble is a record-holder.

Sylacauga Alabama Marble Quarry
The marble quarry is located in Sylacauga, Alabama.

Running through the Alabama earth lies a massive deposit of gorgeous white marble. In fact, it’s the longest deposit of marble in the world. This bed of stone runs about 32 miles long, a mile and a half wide and more than 600 feet deep.

Sought-after for residential, commercial and creative use, this incredible product is recognized as the world’s whitest marble. It’s classic, timeless and resilient, making it a first choice for designers and builders alike.

AM3 Stone is the sole purveyor of Alabama Marble (or Sylacauga Marble), and we’ve teamed up with them so that Central Alabama residents can learn more about what’s right underneath their feet.

2. You can find Alabama Marble in many iconic locations.

Lincoln Memorial Alabama Marble ceiling
Recognize this? Photo via Andy Feliciotti on Unsplash

We weren’t kidding when we said Alabama Marble is sought after from all over the world. You can find it in many historical and iconic locations across the country, as well as in Birmingham.

Here’s a preview:

And that’s just to name a few! The stone is truly unparalleled in composition, not to mention beauty. The best part? It’s as much of a jaw-dropper in residential kitchens as it is in national monuments.

3. Sylacauga is home to an annual marble festival.

Alabama marble countertops
Swooning over this kitchen.

The Sylacauga Marble Festival is held annually in Sylacauga, Alabama—southeast of Birmingham. The twelve-day event showcases Alabama’s beautiful white marble and features sculptors in action at one of the city’s parks.

You can tour the quarry, participate in all kinds of fun activities and more.

In 2021, the festival will take place April 6-17. You can follow them on Facebook to get more info—plus, stay tuned to Bham Now to get an inside look leading up to the festival next year.

4. It’s been praised by some big names.

.Gary Cooper talks about Alabama Marble in the 1949 film The Fountainhead

Ever heard of Giuseppe Moretti? He was a famous Italian sculptor who was most active in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

You may be familiar with one of his most famous works—a certain ironman we all know and love. That’s right, Moretti is the artist behind Vulcan, the largest cast-iron statue ever made.

As a master sculptor, Moretti worked with all kinds of materials. He often spoke of his love for Alabama Marble:

“…the white marble of Tallegeda County is the finest marble in the world, and it is here in unlimited quantity.”

Giuseppe Moretti

5. Alabama Marble holds a pretty important title.

Alabama Marble processing facility
This factory ships out stone that will become a talking point in homes and offices alike.

Alabama Marble is recognized as the official state rock of Alabama. Next time you’re at trivia night and win the round with this nugget of knowledge, we hope you think of us.

The signature white base with dark grey veining can be found all over Birmingham, so be on the lookout next time you’re out and about.

This article originally appeared on Bham Now.