Buyer Beware: The Rise of Imitation Michelangelo Marble in the Indian Market

Over the last decade, Michelangelo marble has become one of the most sought-after materials for premium homes and interiors in India. With its soft white tones and glowing surface, it brings a quiet luxury to any space. But here's something most people don’t know: Michelangelo marble isn't actually from Italy, and it has nothing to do with the famous artist.

Its real name? Estramoz, and it comes from Portugal.

So, how did the name “Michelangelo” become so common? Around 10 years ago, some sellers in India started using that name to market Estramoz marble. The name stuck. It sounded grand, people loved how the marble looked, and it quickly became a trend. But now, that popularity is backfiring.

Michelangelo Marble (Estramoz)

The Problem: Fakes Have Flooded the Market

Today, if you walk into a showroom and ask for Michelangelo marble, there’s a 95% chance you’re being shown an imitation. That’s right, real Estramoz marble has become hard to find. The original quarry's production is low, and the supply is limited.

Because this marble is so popular and the supply is limited, many dealers across the country are selling other marble under the guise of Michelangelo marble. It becomes easier to mislead people into buying these imitation marble as at first look these marble might look similar, but they don’t have the properties of Michelangelo marble. 

So if you're building or renovating a home and plan to use Michelangelo marble, it’s important to know what you're really getting.

What Makes the Real Michelangelo Marble Special?

Here’s how you can tell if it’s the genuine stuff:

• The Colour: Real Michelangelo (Estramoz) marble isn’t a bright white. It has soft, creamy tones with sometimes a light peach tint.

• The Surface: It’s super smooth, almost silky. You won’t see visible grains or crystals like you do in other marble.

• The Glow: This is the real giveaway; the light passes through the marble, giving it a soft, glowing look. No other marble in the world has this level of translucency.

If the marble doesn’t tick all three of these boxes, you’re likely looking at a copy.

Common Fakes Sold as Michelangelo Marble

Here are some of the most common marble being passed off as Michelangelo in India—and why you should be cautious:

1. Turkish Dolomite

• Looks pure white but lacks depth.

• It’s not even marble—it’s a softer, more brittle marble called dolomite.

• Doesn’t allow light to pass through like real Michelangelo does.

• Cracks easily, especially on floors. Patterns are inconsistent, which can make your space look patchy.

2. Namibian White

• Comes with green grains that you’ll never see in real Michelangelo marble.

• These grains don’t polish well, so the surface looks dull.

• Over time, floors made with this marble often end up looking uneven and scratched up.

3. Affilato (From China)

• You can spot this one by the visible grains on its surface.

• Lacks that signature see-through glow of real Estramoz marble.

• Even when polished, it doesn’t shine the same way.

4. Bianco Reale (From Turkey)

• Has fine golden veins and web-like white patterns.

• While a little light passes through this marble, it gets diffused and is not quite up to the mark as the original marble. 

• Lacks the depth and natural elegance of true Michelangelo marble.

Why This Matters

Using the wrong marble isn’t just about looks—it can also cost you more in the long run. Cheaper marble may crack, lose shine, or fade unevenly over time. If you’ve spent a lot of money designing your dream home, the last thing you want is flooring that starts to look old and worn after just a few years.

Real Michelangelo marble (Estramoz) is rare for a reason. It offers a timeless look, it’s strong, and it lasts for decades if maintained well. This is the reason why it is worth making sure what you are buying and ultimately getting is the real deal, i.e., real Michelangelo marble (Estramoz).

How to Protect Yourself

Here are a few simple steps to avoid getting fooled:

• Test for translucency: Shine a light through the slab. Real Michelangelo marble glows from within. Fakes won’t.

• Ask where it’s from: If it’s not from Portugal, it’s not the real deal.

• Check the tone and texture: Look for cream or peach undertones and a super-smooth surface, no visible grains.

• View all the slabs: Don’t rely on just one or two slabs. See all the slabs to make sure it’s consistent in colour and quality.

Final Thoughts

The name Michelangelo might be popular, but not everything sold under that name is worth your money. If you're investing in marble, don’t just go by what the dealer tells you. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and know what to look for.

Real Michelangelo marble = Estramoz from Portugal.

Everything else is just a substitute.

When it comes to something as permanent and expensive as marble flooring or highlight walls, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you’re paying for quality, not just a fancy name.

Buying Michelangelo Marble? Watch This Before You Decide!

One of the most popular marble, Michelangelo might be a fake. Not all Michelangelo marble is the real deal! This video helps you identify real Michelangelo (Estramoz) marble and avoid common fakes. Learn how to spot the right color, texture, and translucency so you don’t end up with the wrong marble. Watch now to make an informed choice!