Spherulite

Spherulite: what is it and how is it formed?

Spherulite is a mineralogical formation that is round or oval balls consisting of various minerals. These balls can have a diameter from a few millimeters to several meters. Spherulites can form in a variety of geological settings, but they are most often found in volcanic rocks.

The formation of spherulites is associated with processes occurring inside the earth. When magma or molten rock cools, it can shrink and crack. As a result, microscopic cracks are formed, which can be filled with minerals from solutions. If conditions are right, minerals can begin to grow around the center, creating round or oval balls called spherulites.

One of the most famous examples of the formation of spherulites is tripoli, or diatomaceous chalk. This material consists of microscopic shells of diatoms - algae that live in fresh water. When diatoms die, their shells settle to the bottom of the reservoir and can eventually turn into tripoli. If spherulites are present during its formation, they can be visible to the naked eye, creating amazing landscapes of beautiful round formations.

Spherulites can also form in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss. In these cases, the formation of spherulites is associated with high pressure and temperature, which can lead to reactions between minerals.

Spherulites can have different colors and consist of different minerals, including quartz, calcite, clay and others. They are often used in jewelry and for interior decoration. Spherulites are also used in science to study the formation and evolution of minerals in the earth.

In conclusion, we can say that spherulites are unique mineralogical formations that can form in different geological conditions. They make beautiful and interesting objects to study and decorate, and are an important tool for science in studying the processes occurring within the earth.