Eclogite is a type of metamorphic rock that is composed of green pyroxene minerals and red garnet crystals. The word "Eclogite" is spelled with five syllables, with the emphasis placed on the second syllable. Its IPA phonetic transcription is [ˈeklədʒaɪt]. The first syllable is pronounced as "ek," which rhymes with the word "deck." The second syllable is pronounced as "ləj," which sounds like "legg." The last syllable is pronounced as "t," like the letter itself.
Eclogite is a type of metamorphic rock that forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, typically within the Earth's mantle or deep within the crust. It is composed primarily of two main minerals: pyrope garnet and omphacite, with minor quantities of other minerals such as kyanite, rutile, and quartz.
The rock derives its name from the Greek words "eklogē" meaning "selection" or "chosen," in reference to the select minerals present. Eclogite typically has a dark green to black color, dense and coarse-grained texture, and can exhibit a distinctive spotted appearance due to the presence of pyrope garnet crystals.
Eclogite forms through the process of regional metamorphism, where pre-existing rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure, causing chemical and mineralogical changes. It commonly occurs in subduction zones, where oceanic crust is pushed beneath continental crust. The extreme conditions encountered during subduction cause the transformation of basalt or gabbro into eclogite.
Due to its high density and resistant nature, eclogite can be easily distinguished from surrounding rocks. Its presence is often an indicator of past tectonic activity and can provide important insights into the geological history of an area. Eclogite is also valued for its use in various scientific studies such as understanding mantle processes and determining the depths at which rocks have been subjected to extreme conditions. Additionally, eclogite can also be used as a decorative stone or gemstone due to the beautiful color and unique patterns displayed by the pyrope garnet crystals.
A mineral, being a fine-grained mixture of green smeragdite and red garnet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "eclogite" is derived from the Greek words "eklogē", which means "selection" or "choice", and "lithos", which means "stone". The term "eclogite" was coined by the Norwegian geologist Hans Reusch in 1892 to describe a specific type of metamorphic rock he encountered during his studies in Norway. The name was chosen to reflect the distinct and handpicked nature of this rock in comparison to the surrounding rocks.