A multi-analytical study has been carried out on a collection of white
and coloured Iberian marbles. A total of 135 marble specimens were
collected in Spain and Portugal from the Betic chain (Alhaurin de la
Torre, Mijas, Macael), Ossa Morena (Alconera, Almaden de la Plata and
Viana do Alentejo), and the Estremoz Anticline (Bencatel, Borba and
Estremoz) areas. X-ray diffractometry and carbon and oxygen stable
isotope analysis were carried out on these samples; 38 samples were also
investigated by optical and scanning electron microscopy. The results
provide a set of diagnostic parameters that allow discriminating the
sampled marble quarries. The carbonate minerals composition is
distinctive for the Mijas and Alhaurin de la Torre marbles; the isotopic
analysis allows discriminating also between these two dolomitic marble
quarries. The Ossa Morena and Estremoz Anticline marbles share a similar
stable isotope composition; the accessory mineral content, the maximum
grain size (MGS) and the fabric are particularly useful in the
distinction between them. In the framework of archaeometric provenance
studies on Thamusida (Kenitra, Morocco) Roman marble artefacts, a
specific comparison between this new Iberian database and archaeological
findings has been carried out. The hypothesis of commercial exchanges
between the Iberian regions and Roman Morocco is supported by the
results of the provenance study, which suggested the Almaden de la Plata
and Mijas quarries as possible sources of raw materials for the
production of archaeological artefacts.