The given paper describes the historical classification of lime based binders, the theory of hydraulicity as well as the current classification principles, classification and regulated properties of lime binders according to LVS EN 459-1:2010. Mineral resources of Latvian carbonate rocks applicable for the production of lime binders are described. Historically for the building lime in Latvia the lime binders with clay content up to 15 % have been used. In Latvia there are abundant dolomite mineral resources, what allows indirectly to conclude that particularly dolomite and its lithological varieties like dolomite marl were the most characteristic historical raw material for lime binders. From Latvian carbonate rocks, both limestone and dolomite are appropriate as the raw materials, after burning yielding air or hydraulic lime corresponding to LVS EN 459-1:2010 by their classification and properties. In order to compare the properties of hydraulic binder obtained from carbonate rocks (dolomite marl) and artificial dolomite – clay mixture, parallel sample series were prepared. Evaluation of chemical setting process was carried out by analyses of crystalline phases (XRD) after burning and during hydration. According to the data obtained during experimental studies it is possible to conclude that hydraulic lime with equal properties could be obtained from both natural, clay containing dolomite (dolomite marl) and from the mixture of dolomite and clay. The advantage of artificial mixture of raw materials is the possibility to simulate both the composition as well the properties of end product.