Where is Amphibolite found?
Amphibolite
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Open the appAmphibolite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Amphibolite
Fennoscandian Shield
Extensive occurrences in Norway, Sweden, and Finland, often associated with Precambrian greenstone belts and high-grade metamorphic complexes.
Appalachian Mountains, USA
Found in various metamorphic belts throughout the Appalachian orogen, from New England to the southern states.
Canadian Shield
Widespread in Canada, particularly in Ontario, Quebec, and Labrador, within ancient metamorphic terranes.
Himalayan Orogen
Present in the metamorphic core complexes and thrust sheets of the Himalayas, indicating significant crustal thickening and metamorphism.
European Alps
Occurs in the metamorphic units of the Alps, reflecting the complex tectonic history of the region.
Collecting tips
- Look for Dark, Dense Rocks. Amphibolite is typically dark-colored (dark green to black) and relatively dense due to its mafic mineral content. Look for these characteristics in outcrop.
- Identify Amphibole Crystals. Examine the rock for elongated, prismatic, dark green to black crystals of amphibole (hornblende). These often show a characteristic 'splintery' appearance on broken surfaces and may be aligned.
- Check for Foliation. While some amphibolites are massive, many exhibit foliation (schistosity) where the amphibole crystals are aligned, giving the rock a preferred orientation. This can be seen on weathered surfaces or freshly broken faces.
- Consider the Geological Context. Amphibolite is a metamorphic rock, so it will be found in areas that have undergone significant regional or contact metamorphism, such as mountain ranges, ancient shield areas, or near large igneous intrusions.
- Distinguish from Basalt/Gabbro. While derived from mafic igneous rocks, amphibolite will show metamorphic textures (foliation, granoblastic texture) and mineral assemblages (prominent amphibole, less pyroxene) that distinguish it from its igneous protoliths.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Dark green to black
- Luster:
- Vitreous to dull
- Streak:
- White to grayish-white
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