The invention provides novel marble-like composite materials and methods for preparation thereof. The marble-like composite materials can be readily produced from widely available, low cost raw materials by a process suitable for large-scale production. The precursor materials include calcium silicate and calcium carbonate rich materials, for example, wollastonite and limestone. Various additives can be used to fine-tune the physical appearance and mechanical properties of the composite material, such as pigments (e.g., black iron oxide, cobalt oxide and chromium oxide) and minerals (e.g., quartz, mica and feldspar). These marble-like composite materials exhibit veins, swirls and/or waves unique to marble as well as display compressive strength, flexural strength and water absorption similar to that of marble.