Hypabyssal Rocks Examples (Characteristics and Types)

If you’re a student or amateur geologist trying to learn more about the classification of rocks and minerals, this article is for you.

Here, we’ll introduce you to hypabyssal rocks: what they are, some examples of common hypabyssal rocks, their physical characteristics, where they’re found, and how they compare to other types of rocks.

By the end of this article, you’ll better understand hypabyssal rocks and what sets them apart from other types of rocks.

Hypabyssal Rocks Examples (Characteristics and Types)

What are Hypabyssal Rocks?

So, what exactly are hypabyssal rocks? Hypabyssal rocks are a type of rock that forms in the lower parts of the Earth’s crust, typically at depths of 1-5 kilometers.

They are characterized by their small grain size and porosity and are usually made up of igneous or metamorphic rocks that have been broken down into smaller pieces.

These rocks are typically found around areas of volcanic activity, as they are formed by the cooling and solidification of lava that has been injected into the lower parts of the crust.

They can also be found in areas where there has been a lot of tectonic activity, as they are often formed from the metamorphism of existing rocks that have been exposed to high temperatures and pressures.

Comparing Hypabyssal Rocks

When it comes to physical characteristics, hypabyssal rocks can be divided into two main categories: intrusive and extrusive.

Intrusive rocks are those that have cooled slowly underground, while extrusive rocks are those that have cooled quickly on the surface.

Hypabyssal rocks are typically classified based on their grain size, with those that have large grains being classified as porphyritic and those with small grains being classified as microcrystalline.

Additionally, these rocks can be further classified based on their composition, with those that are made up of mafic minerals being classified as mafic and those that are made up of felsic minerals being classified as felsic.

Most of the rocks considered hypabyssal are intrusive, as they have a slow cooling process. This allows for the formation of large crystals, which give the rock a porphyritic texture.

The most common type of intrusive hypabyssal rock is granite, which is made up of quartz, feldspar, and mica.

On the other hand, extrusive hypabyssal rocks have a fast cooling process. This results in small crystals, giving the rock a microcrystalline texture.

The most common type of extrusive hypabyssal rock is basalt, which is made up of plagioclase, pyroxene, and olivine.

Hypabyssal rocks are an important part of the Earth’s crust, as they make up a large portion of the continental plates.

Dolerite

One of the most common types of hypabyssal rock is dolerite.

Dolerite is a dark-colored, medium-grained igneous rock that is made up of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene.

It is typically found in areas of volcanic activity, as it is formed by the slow cooling of lava that has been injected into the lower parts of the crust.

Dolerite has a number of interesting physical characteristics. For one, it is very strong and durable, making it a popular choice for use in construction.

It is also very resistant to weathering and erosion, meaning that it can be found in a variety of different environments like coasts, deserts, and mountains.

This rock is typically quarried and used for various purposes, such as road construction and building stone.

It is also a popular choice for use as a landscaping stone, as it has a natural beauty that can enhance any space.

Gabbro

Another common type of hypabyssal rock is gabbro. Gabbro is a dark-colored, dense, and coarse-grained igneous rock that is made up of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene.

Like dolerite, it is typically found in areas of volcanic activity, as it is formed by the slow cooling of lava that has been injected into the lower parts of the crust.

Gabbro has many of the same physical characteristics as dolerite. It is strong and durable, making it a popular choice for construction.

This rock is usually found near the ocean, as it is resistant to weathering and erosion.

This rock is typically used for various purposes, such as road construction, building stone, and landscaping.

It is also a popular choice for use in jewelry, as it has a natural beauty that can enhance any piece.

Microgranite

Microgranite is a type of hypabyssal rock that is made up of quartz, feldspar, and mica.

It is a light-colored, fine-grained igneous rock that is typically found in areas of volcanic activity.

This rock has several interesting physical characteristics.

For one, it has smaller intrusions than standard granite and is less likely to weather and erode.

Additionally, microgranite has a unique appearance that can enhance any space.

Visually, microgranite is nearly identical to standard granite, as the differences are only detectable through a microscope.

This rock is typically used for the same purposes as granite, such as construction, landscaping, and jewelry.

Microdiorite

Microdiorite is a type of hypabyssal rock that is comprised of crystals of plagioclase feldspar, quartz, and hornblende.

The physical characteristics of microdiorite include a dark gray color, a medium-grained texture, and a high quartz content. This rock is typically found in areas of volcanic activity.

This specific type of rock is usually formed from magma that has cooled relatively quickly, resulting in smaller crystals.

Additionally, microdiorite is more resistant to weathering and erosion than other types of rocks.

Microdiorite is seen as small intrusions in standard diorite and is used for the same purposes.

Originating from the Greek word for “two rocks,” diorite is found in several locations, including Scotland, Austria, and the United States.

Porphyry

Porphyry is a type of igneous rock that is made up of large crystals of feldspar or quartz in a fine-grained matrix.

This rock typically has a medium to dark color and is found in areas of volcanic activity. Some of the most common types of porphyry include diorite, gabbro, and granite.

Porphyry has a number of interesting components that make it unique.

For one, the large crystals are typically surrounded by a fine-grained matrix, which gives the rock a distinctive appearance.

The surface of porphyry is also very rough, as it is generally found near the Earth’s surface.

This rock gets its name from the Greek word for “purple,” as it often has a reddish hue.

Like many hypabyssal rocks, porphyry is strong, durable, and resistant to weathering and erosion.

Additionally, this rock is easy to quarry and work with, making it a popular choice for construction.

Hypabyssal rocks are some of the most common rocks on Earth, as volcanic activity is responsible for their formation.

These rocks are visually unique, durable, and have many uses.

If you’re interested in learning more about hypabyssal rocks, be sure to check out more information on the examples listed above.