Limestone Marble Metamorphism

Since metamorphism recrystallizes the individual calcite or dolomite crystals in the parent rock slightly metamophosed limestones have textures that look slightly blurred compared to a fresh limestone.

Limestone marble metamorphism.

Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The variety of colours exhibited by marble are a consequence of minor amounts of impurities being incorporated with the calcite during metamorphism. The resulting marble rock is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals. It is composed primarily of the mineral calcite caco 3 and usually contains other minerals such as clay minerals micas quartz pyrite iron oxides and graphite.

In this hand specimen of vermont marble the crystals are small. Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when limestone is exposed to high temperatures and pressures. Marble is a rock resulting from metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks most commonly limestone or dolomite rock. During metamorphism the calcite limestone recrystallizes forming the interlocking calcite crystals that make up the marble.

Marble is made by regional metamorphism of limestone or dolomite rock causing their microscopic grains to combine into larger crystals. Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism. Marbles are limestones or dolostones that have been metamorphosed.