Dark ultramafic rock composed primarily of pyroxene minerals 90% . Forms in layered intrusions. Texture: Phaneritic. Rock type: Igneous Intrusive. Grain size: Coarse. Minerals present: Orthopyroxene, Clinopyroxene, Olivine minor, Garnet. Formation: Forms as cumulate layers in layered mafic-ultramafic intrusions and in the upper mantle. Common geological settings: Bushveld Complex, Stillwater Complex; found in layered intrusions worldwide. Common look-alikes and related entries: Peridotite, Gabbro, Hornblendite.
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GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:38:05.273992+00:00
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Published; not independently peer-reviewed
Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
Dark ultramafic rock composed primarily of pyroxene minerals 90% . Forms in layered intrusions.
How can you identify Pyroxenite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Igneous Intrusive; texture: Phaneritic; grain size: Coarse; common minerals: Orthopyroxene, Clinopyroxene, Olivine minor, Garnet. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Pyroxenite form?
Forms as cumulate layers in layered mafic-ultramafic intrusions and in the upper mantle.
Where is Pyroxenite commonly found?
Bushveld Complex, Stillwater Complex; found in layered intrusions worldwide.
What is Pyroxenite commonly confused with?
Pyroxenite may be confused with Peridotite, Gabbro, Hornblendite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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