Coarse-grained metamorphic rock formed by metasomatic replacement at the contact between igneous intrusions and carbonate rocks. Texture: Coarse-grained, variable. Rock type: Metamorphic Contact/Metasomatic. Grain size: Coarse. Parent rock: Limestone/Dolostone. Minerals present: Garnet grossular/andradite, Pyroxene diopside, Epidote, Wollastonite, Vesuvianite. Formation: Forms at intrusion-carbonate contacts where hot fluids cause metasomatic exchange, creating calc-silicate minerals. Common geological settings: Worldwide; major ore deposits Cu, Fe, W, Sn, Mo form in skarn environments. Common look-alikes and related entries: Marble, Hornfels, Calc-silicate rock.
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GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:39:10.705332+00:00
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Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
Coarse-grained metamorphic rock formed by metasomatic replacement at the contact between igneous intrusions and carbonate rocks.
How can you identify Skarn?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Metamorphic Contact/Metasomatic; texture: Coarse-grained, variable; grain size: Coarse; common minerals: Garnet grossular/andradite, Pyroxene diopside, Epidote, Wollastonite, Vesuvianite. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Skarn form?
Forms at intrusion-carbonate contacts where hot fluids cause metasomatic exchange, creating calc-silicate minerals.
Where is Skarn commonly found?
Worldwide; major ore deposits Cu, Fe, W, Sn, Mo form in skarn environments.
What is Skarn commonly confused with?
Skarn may be confused with Marble, Hornfels, Calc-silicate rock. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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