Breccia
Breccia is a sedimentary rock composed of angular fragments cemented together. Unlike conglomerate, breccia contains sharp, angular pieces rather than rounded pebbles. Breccia forms in fault zones, impact craters, and other high-energy environments where rocks are broken but not rounded.
Physical Properties of Breccia
| Texture | Clastic (angular fragments) |
| Colors | Variable, depends on fragment composition |
| Magnetism | Variable |
| Grain Size | Coarse-grained (fragments > 2mm) |
| Hardness | Variable (depends on cement) |
| Density | 2.0-2.8 g/cm³ |
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Chemical Properties of Breccia
Main Elements:
Variable
Chemical Composition:
Variable, depends on the composition of angular fragments and cementing material
Health Risk of Breccia
Be careful of sharp edges when handling breccia, as the angular fragments can be sharp.
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Market Price:
Polished: $0.50-$3 per piece
Raw/Tumbled: $2-$10 per piece
Characteristics of Breccia
Density:
2.0-2.8 g/cm³
Compressive Strength:
Variable
Melting Point:
Variable
Formation:
Forms in fault zones, impact craters, landslides, and other environments where rocks are broken into angular fragments and quickly cemented together.
Composition:
Composed of angular rock fragments cemented together by silica, calcite, or iron oxide.
Types:
- Fault Breccia
- Impact Breccia
- Volcanic Breccia
- Sedimentary Breccia
Etymology:
Derived from the Italian word "breccia" meaning "rubble" or "broken stones".
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Cultural Significance of Breccia
Uses:
- Decorative stone
- Construction aggregate
- Scientific study
Distribution:
Found in fault zones, impact craters, and areas of tectonic activity worldwide
Historical Use:
Used in construction and as decorative stone. Impact breccias provide evidence of meteorite impacts.
Symbolism:
Represents sudden change, impact, and Earth's dynamic processes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between breccia and conglomerate?
Breccia contains angular fragments, while conglomerate contains rounded pebbles. Breccia forms closer to the source, conglomerate forms after transport.
Where is breccia found?
Breccia is found in fault zones, impact craters, landslides, and areas where rocks have been broken but not transported far.
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