metamorphic
Quartzite with Epidote/Chlorite Inclusion
Metamorphic Quartzite (SiO2 with accessory silicate minerals)
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale translucent white to tan quartz juxtaposed with olive-green to dark brownish-green alteration minerals. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Texture: Granoblastic, coarse crystalline quartz vein structure bordering fine-grained metamorphic host matrix.
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale translucent white to tan quartz juxtaposed with olive-green to dark brownish-green alteration minerals. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Texture: Granoblastic, coarse crystalline quartz vein structure bordering fine-grained metamorphic host matrix.
Formation & geological history
Formed via regional or contact metamorphism where sandstone or quartz vein deposits were subjected to high temperature and pressure, experiencing secondary hydrothermal alteration that introduced epidote, chlorite, or amphibole minerals.
Uses & applications
Primarily collected as a decorative rock or field specimen. Larger deposits of quartzite are used in construction, road aggregate, and dimension stone.
Geological facts
Quartz veins frequently intrude host rocks during metamorphic events. The green coloration in such specimens often comes from epidote or chlorite alteration resulting from hydrothermal fluids flowing along fracture zones.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the distinct boundary between glassy, hard milky/smoky quartz grains and a fine-grained greenish metamorphic matrix. Easily found in riverbeds, glacial tills, and metamorphic terranes worldwide.
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