Recrystallization (geology)

Crystallization
Fundamentals
Crystal Crystal structure Nucleation
Concepts
Crystallization Crystal growth Recrystallization Seed crystal Protocrystalline Single crystal
Methods and technology
Boules Bridgman–Stockbarger method Van Arkel–de Boer process Czochralski method Epitaxy Flux method Fractional crystallization Fractional freezing Hydrothermal synthesis Kyropoulos method Laser-heated pedestal growth Micro-pulling-down Shaping processes in crystal growth Skull crucible Verneuil method Zone melting

In geology, solid-state recrystallization is a metamorphic process that occurs under situations of intense temperature and pressure where grains, atoms or molecules of a rock or mineral are packed closer together, creating a new crystal structure. The basic composition remains the same. This process can be illustrated by observing how snow recrystallizes to ice without melting.

As opposed to metasomatism, which is a chemical change caused by metamorphism, recrystallization is a physical process. However, recrystallization can occur when a local migration of chemicals results in the chemical change of the rock or mineral with no external addition of materials.

Limestone is a sedimentary rock that undergoes metamorphic recrystallization to form marble, and clays can recrystallize to muscovite mica.