Foliation & Fabric (Metamorphic)
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In plain terms
Foliation is the “grain” of metamorphic rock—minerals line up as the rock deforms.
Key takeaways
- Foliation forms under directed stress.
- Mica-rich rocks foliate easily.
- Foliation can record tectonic shortening and shear.
- Not all metamorphic rocks are foliated (e.g., marble, quartzite).
- Fabric + minerals help interpret metamorphic conditions.