Cataclasite identification and geology

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Sources, scope & corrections

These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.

Editorial owner

GeoMiner

Last updated

2026-03-30T14:39:17.228575+00:00

Review status

Published; not independently peer-reviewed

• Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
• Can you identify my rock or mineral? — U.S. Geological Survey. Identification limitations and routes to in-person professional verification.

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Common questions

What is Cataclasite?

Fault rock formed by brittle fragmentation of rock along fault zones at shallow depths. Angular fragments in a fine matrix.

How can you identify Cataclasite?

Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Metamorphic Deformational; texture: Brecciated, angular fragments; grain size: Variable crushed; common minerals: Variable crushed host rock fragments. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.

How does Cataclasite form?

Forms by brittle fracturing and grinding along fault zones at shallow crustal depths <10-15 km .

Where is Cataclasite commonly found?

Found along shallow fault zones worldwide; San Andreas Fault, Alpine Fault.

What is Cataclasite commonly confused with?

Cataclasite may be confused with Breccia, Mylonite, Fault Gouge. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.