metamorphic
Eclogite
Eclogite (Omphacite-Garnet rock)
Hardness: 6-7.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Mottled green and red/pink; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Granular/Massive; Specific gravity: 3.2-3.6
- Hardness
- 6-7
- Color
- Mottled green and red/pink
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Mottled green and red/pink; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Granular/Massive; Specific gravity: 3.2-3.6
Formation & geological history
Formed under conditions of extremely high pressure and relatively high temperature (the eclogite facies) in the Earth's mantle or deep crustal subduction zones.
Uses & applications
Primarily of interest to geologists and collectors. Used as a high-pressure experimental material and occasionally as a minor decorative stone, though rare.
Geological facts
Eclogite is often referred to as the 'Christmas tree rock' due to its iconic red-on-green appearance. It provides critical evidence of plate tectonic subduction processes.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for visible red pyrope garnet crystals embedded in a dense, dark green matrix of omphacite pyroxene. Commonly found in xenoliths or high-pressure metamorphic terranes like those in Norway or California.
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