sedimentary
Glauconite
(K,Na)(Al,Fe^3+,Mg)2(Al,Si)4O10(OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 2-3 on the Mohs scale, earthy green color, dull to earthy luster, monoclinic crystal system, and specific gravity around 2.4-2.9.
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Physical properties
Hardness 2-3 on the Mohs scale, earthy green color, dull to earthy luster, monoclinic crystal system, and specific gravity around 2.4-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Forms in shallow marine environments with slow sedimentation rates, typically occurring as pellets or in pores of shells during the Precambrian to Recent eras.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a soil conditioner and source of potassium in organic fertilizers, as well as a green pigment in paints.
Geological facts
Glauconite often forms the characteristic green grains found in greensand formations and can be used for potassium-argon dating of sedimentary rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive olive-green to dark green color and granular pellet morphology, commonly found in marine sedimentary deposits worldwide.
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Fossil-bearing concretion, possibly containing a fossil shell or other organic inclusion
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Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
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Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
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Sandstone
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Shale
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Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
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