Recrystallization (geology)

Crystallization
Concepts
Crystallization · Crystal growth Recrystallization · Seed crystal Protocrystalline · Single crystal
Methods and technology
Boules Bridgman–Stockbarger technique Czochralski process Fractional crystallization Fractional freezing Hydrothermal synthesis Laser-heated pedestal growth Crystal bar process
Fundamentals
Nucleation · Crystal Crystal structure · Solid

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.