This is a variegated travertine. We actually found this lot looking for something with a lot of movement and found that, at the time, people were not looking for anything like this...only the ones that had less color variation...we got this stone for $3.50/sf in 18 x 18 tiles (very inexpensive) and had them cut in half to create this look.
It really does depend on the type of stone you are using...both the fabricators and the stoneyards should be able to give you guidance based on what you are buying.
Joel Kelly Design, Inc.
Sustainable Dwellings
Northwest Tile and Stone Care
Sustainable Dwellings
Joel Kelly Design