Metamorphic Rocks

Types of Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks arise from the transformation of existing rock types (igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) in a process called metamorphism. The original rock is subjected to heat and pressure causing profound physical and chemical change. Famous examples include Marble, Slate, and Schist.

Slate

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Foliated

Appearance: Dull

Marble

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Granular

Appearance: Veined and Shiny

Schist

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Foliated, Platy

Appearance: Layered and Shiny

Gneiss

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Banded, Foliated, Platy

Appearance: Foliated

Quartzite

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Foliated, Granular

Appearance: Lustrous

Anthracite

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Amorphous, Glassy

Appearance: Veined or Pebbled

Phyllite

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Phyllitic Sheen, Slaty

Appearance: Crinkled or Wavy

Migmatite

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Foliated

Appearance: Dull, Banded and Foliated

Eclogite

Class: Metamorphic Rocks

Texture: Earthy

Appearance: Dull, Banded and Foliated

Metamorphic rocks form deep beneath the Earth's surface from existing rock types. You may also be interested in Igneous Rocks and Sedimentary Rocks.