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banded gabbroic complex

geology
Also known as: layered gabbroic complex

Quick Summary

A banded gabbroic complex is a geological formation characterized by layers, or bands, of different minerals or colors within a rock composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene. Gabbro itself is an intrusive igneous rock, meaning it forms from magma that cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface. This slow cooling allows for the development of medium to coarse-grained crystals.123

These banded complexes are found in various locations, including Montana, South Africa's Bushveld, and the island of Skye. While gabbro can be quarried for dimension stone, its primary economic importance lies in its association with significant mineralizations of nickel, chromium, and platinum.1

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. gabbro
  2. banded structure
  3. intrusive rock

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