Amphibolite
A variety of Metamorphic
What is Amphibolite?
Amphibolite is a common, often coarsely-speckled metamorphic rock that contains primarily amphibole and plagioclase feldspar (the former is dark, often black, and the latter is white). Because it is hard, takes a polish well, and sports a handsome pattern, amphibolite is commonly used for paving stones or building facades.
Uses & Applications
While amphibolite can be used like many other rocks for construction materials, occasionally it also contains a significant amount of garnets. The garnet mined from amphibolite then can be cut and polished for gemstones, or it can be ground into smaller pieces to be used as an abrasive.
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Amphibolite Market Value Calculator
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Amphibolite Localities Map
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Key Characteristics
Composition of Amphibolite
Metamorphic rocks composed primarily of amphibole, plagioclase, with subordinate epidote, zoisite, chlorite, quartz, titanite, and accessory leucoxene, ilmenite and magnetite which have a protolith of an igneous rock are known as Orthoamphibolite. Para-amphibolite will generally have the same equilibrium mineral assemblage as orthoamphibolite, with more biotite, and may include more quartz, plagioclase, and depending on the protolith, more calcite/aragonite and wollastonite.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Black, green, brown, etc.
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6 - 7
- Density
- 2.85 - 3.07 g/cm³
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