Sandstone Spherulites at Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, Arizona
Sandstone spherulites are fascinating geological formations that appear as spherical or rounded masses within sandstone layers. These formations develop through a process known as concretion, where mineral deposits gradually accumulate around a central point or nucleus within the sedimentary rock. Over time, this process creates dense, spherical bodies that stand out from the surrounding sandstone. Often found in arid and desert regions, sandstone spherulites can vary in size, from small pebbles to larger boulder-sized formations. Their unique shape and smooth surfaces make them a distinctive feature of the landscape, offering clues about the mineral composition and environmental conditions during the time of their formation. Spherulites are not only geological curiosities but also valuable records of Earth's ancient environments.
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Photo credit: © Phil Degginger / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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