chloritization Petrogr.
(ˌklɔərɪtaɪˈzeɪʃən)
[f. chlorite1 + -ization, after G. chloritisirung (H. Rosenbusch Mikrosk. Physiogr. (ed. 2, 1887) II. 183).]
A transformation into or replacement by chlorite, esp. of ferromagnesian minerals by hydrothermal action. Hence (as a back-formation) chloritize v. trans. (chiefly in passive), to convert into chlorite.
| 1890 G. H. Williams Greenstone Schist Michigan 56 The simultaneous action of the two last described processes (chloritization and epidotization) in an aluminous pyroxene or hornblende results in the production of an aggregate consisting of..crystals of epidote, imbedded in a green, scaly mass of chlorite. 1909 Econ. Geol. IV. 633 A chloritised or partially altered rock (grünstein). 1914 F. H. Hatch Petrol. Igneous Rocks (ed. 7) i. iv. 72 Chloritization is one of the commonest changes undergone by the ferro-magnesian minerals, the amphiboles, pyroxenes, dark micas, and olivines all falling a prey to it. 1963 D. W. & E. E. Humphries tr. Termier's Erosion & Sedimentation ii. 45 Fault breccias which are chloritized stand out green against the virgin rock. |