Roger 2

Mineral Appearances:
Aragonite - CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate)

Aragonite occurs as small, acicular (needle-like), radiating
crystals within the vugs of the basalt. These elongated prismatic crystals
are semi-hard (3.5 - 4.0) and very fragile with a vitreous luster, a white
streak, and a brownish-yellow to white color.
Calcite - CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate)
Calcite occurs as small, compact, yellowish-white, marble-like masses
filling the vugs in the basalt. It has a hardness of 3.0 with a vitreous to
pearly luster and a white streak. These properties along with brisk
effervescence in cold hydrochloric acid make calcite relatively easy to
identify.
Goethite - [[alpha]]-FeOOH (Iron Hydroxide)
Goethite is present in the form of botryoidal brownish-black aggregates.
It can be distinguished from siderite by its higher degree of hardness (5.0 -
5.5) dark brown to black color, and brownish-yellow streak. Goethite also
occurs as a thin, brown, poorly crystalline coating over the botryoidal
siderite. X-ray diffraction analysis verified the identification.
Hematite - Fe2O3 (Iron Oxide)
Hematite occurs as compact, granular masses. It is relatively hard (5.5 -
6.5), has a high specific gravity, exhibits no cleavage, has an earthy luster,
produces a red-brown streak, and is a deep red color.
Limonite - FeO*OH*nH2O (Hydrated Iron Oxide)
Limonite is present in the form of earthy, porous masses and as a crustal
material covering the basalt. The physical properties of limonite are highly
variable owing to varying chemical composition and habit, but at this
location it is yellowish-brown in color with a earthy luster, pale brown to
yellow streak, and is very fragile.
Opal - SiO2*nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The white or clear opal is present as botryoidal, globular masses
encrusting the basalt, as well as being present within the vugs in the
basalt.
The differences in color of the opal samples may be due to varying
impurities in the specimens. Opal is relatively easy to identify. It has a
hardness of 5.5 - 6.5, low specific gravity, and a vitreous or greasy luster.
It is also fragile, with very small conchoidal fractures present in nearly all
of the samples.
Siderite - FeCO3 (Iron Carbonate)
Siderite is present as botryoidal globular masses within the vugs in the
basalt. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0 with a bright vitreous luster and a
white streak. The color varies from a very pale brown to a pale yellow or
white. The spheres are thinly coated with brown goethite and range in
size from 1 to 5 mm. Identification of this mineral was verified by the use
of X-ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Biotite - K(Mg,Fe)3(Al,Fe)Si3O10(OH,F)2
(Hydrous Potassium Aluminum Silicate)
Biotite occurs as foliated, platy aggregates in the metamorphic rocks. The
crystals range in size from <1 mm to 3 mm across and are the main
constituent of the mica schist. Biotite can be identified by its perfect
basal cleavage, vitreous luster, flexible sheets, and brownish- black color.
Garnet (Almandine) - Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 (Iron Aluminum Silicate)
The garnets along this route are contained in the mica schist. They are
relatively small, ranging in size from <1 mm to 3 mm in diameter. Some of
these garnets display a prominent dodecahedral shape but most are in the
form of rounded grains. Garnets are hard (6.5 - 7.5) and lack cleavage.
Uneven or subconchoidal fractures are common along with an
adamantine luster, a white streak, and a dark red-brown color.
Identification of this mineral was verified by using the X-ray
diffractometer in the laboratory.
Kyanite - Al2SiO5 (Aluminum Silicate)
Kyanite is present in the form of elongated tabular crystals ranging in
size from 0.5 to 2 cm long and approximately 0.5 cm wide. This mineral is
unique in that its hardness varies from 6.0 - 7.0 parallel to the cleavage
planes to 4.0 - 5.0 across the cleavage planes. Kyanite has a vitreous to
pearly luster, a white streak, and is commonly light blue or blue-gray in
color. Positive identification was made by using the X-ray diffractometer
in the laboratory.
Muscovite - KAl2(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
Muscovite mica occurs as small (~ 5 mm), thin disseminated plates in the
mica schist. These flexible, elastic plates exhibit perfect basal cleavage,
prominent vitreous luster, and a silvery or yellowish-white color.
Quartz - SiO2 (Silicon Oxide)
Quartz is present as massive, compact, cryptocrystalline rocks in the
tailings piles. It is present as a result of hydrothermal activity in the area.
The quartz that has been exposed and weathered is coated with a yellow
or red-brown iron stain, whereas freshly broken samples are of the smoky-
quartz or milky-quartz variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no cleavage, but
conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Sillimanite - Al2SiO5 (Aluminum Silicate)
Sillimanite occurs as long, slender, fibrous crystals within the mica schist
and in the loose material in the tailings piles. The crystals are 0.5 to 1.5
cm long and approximately 0.5 cm wide. They vary slightly in color from a
yellowish-white to gray in the mica schist. The yellowish-white
sillimanite present in veins has been weathered and is very fragile, but the
crystals within the schist have a hardness of 6 - 7 with a vitreous or
pearly luster and perfect cleavage parallel the the direction of elongation.
Identification of this mineral was verified through the use of the X-ray
Actinolite - Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2
(Hydrous Calcium Magnesium Iron Silicate)
Actinolite occurs as elongated prismatic crystals in the metamorphic rocks.
The color ranges from a light to dark green, and the crystals exhibit
perfect cleavage parallel to the elongation direction. Actinolite is hard
(5.0 - 6.0), with a vitreous to silky luster. Actinolite also occurs in a
fibrous form with the same physical properties. Positive identification
was attained by the use of the X-ray diffractometer, and the Scanning
Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
crystals range in size from <1 mm to 3 mm across and are the main
constituent of the mica schist. Biotite can be identified by its perfect
Diopside - CaMgSi2O6 (Calcium Magnesium Silicate)
Diopside occurs as slightly elongated prismatic crystals, fibrous radiating
aggregates, and granular masses in the metamorphic rocks. Diopside has a
hardness of between 5.0 and 6.0 with two directions of cleavage at
approximately 90deg.. The crystals display a vitreous luster, a white
streak, and are dark green in color. Positive identification was attained
by the use of the X-ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
Garnet (Almandine) - Fe3Al2(SiO4)3 (Iron Aluminum Silicate)
The garnets along this route are contained in the mica schist. They are
relatively small, ranging in size from <1 mm to 3 mm in diameter. Some of
these garnets display a prominent dodecahedral shape but most are in the
form of rounded grains. Garnets are hard (6.5 -7.5) and lack cleavage.
Uneven or subconchoidal fractures are common along with an
adamantine luster, a white streak, and a dark red-brown color.
Identification of this mineral was verified by using the X-ray
Muscovite mica occurs as small (~ 5 mm), thin disseminated plates in the
mica schist. These flexible, elastic plates exhibit perfect basal cleavage,
Scapolite - (Na,Ca,K)4Al3(Al,Si)3Si16O24(Cl,SO4,CO3)
(Complex Silicate)
Scapolite ocurrs as microgranular masses or aggregates in and on the
metamorphic rocks at this site. Some very small prismatic crystals can be
seen with the aid of a hand lens. Scapolite has a hardness of 5.0 - 6.5,
very poor cleavage, a dull vitreous luster, and is grayish-white in color.
Positive identification was attained by the use of the X-ray
Azurite - Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2 (Hydrous Copper Carbonate)
Azurite occurs as very small, striated, tabular, prismatic, radiating,
intergrown crystals in the rocks found in the hydrothermal veins, and as a
granular film coating the copper-bearing metamorphic rocks. This
secondary copper mineral is semi-hard (3.5 - 4.0), displays good cleavage
with a vitreous luster, and has a pale blue streak. It is commonly
associated with malachite.
crystals range in size from <1 mm to 3 mm across and are found in the
rocks in the hydrothermal veins. Biotite can be identified by its perfect
Bornite - Cu5FeS4 (Copper Iron Sulfide)
Bornite can be found as octahedral crystals at this location, but it is more
likely to be found as compact granular masses. It commonly displays a
reddish-bronze color which is tarnished to an iridescent purple and blue
film. The old miners referred to bornite as "Peacock Ore." Bornite has a
hardness of 3.0, a high specific gravity, a gray-black streak, and a metallic
luster.
Calcite occurs as small, compact, yellowish-white, marble-like masses
filling the fractures and coating the exterior of the metamorphic rocks. It
has a hardness of 3.0 and a vitreous to pearly luster and a white streak.
These properties, along with brisk effervescence in cold hydrochloric acid,
make calcite relatively easy to identify.
Chalcopyrite - CuFeS2 (Copper Iron Sulfide)
Chalcopyrite occurs as compact granular masses as a result of
hydrothermal activity and metamorphism. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0, a
high specific gravity, lacks cleavage, a greenish-black streak, and a semi-
metallic luster. Chalcopyrite is dark, brassy yellow in color and is coated
with an iridescent film.
Native Copper - Cu (Native Element)
Small amounts of copper are present as compact, filiform masses. It
displays the characteristic copper-red color on fresh surfaces. However,
most samples are coated with a greenish malachite film or a blackish or
iridescent film. Copper is soft (2.5 - 3.0), very heavy, and malleable with a
metallic luster.
Garnet - (Ca,Fe)3Al2(SiO4)3 (Calcium, Iron Aluminum Silicate)
The garnets at this location occur as grossular-andradite garnets. They are
present in the rocks found in the hydrothermal veins and at the contact
with the surrounding metamorphic rocks. The dodecahedral crystals are
small (~ 1 mm across), very hard (6.5 - 7.5), have subconchoidal fractures,
and a vitreous luster. Owing to the varying amounts of calcium and iron
in the chemical composition, these garnets range in color from light green
to pink to red, cinnamon or brownish-black. Positive identification was
obtained by using the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron
Microscope in the laboratory.
Labradorite (plagioclase) - (Ca,Na)AlSi3O8
(Calcium, Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
The plagioclase feldspar present at this location is a solid solution
between anorthite and albite end-members and contain equal amounts of
calcium and sodium. The elongated, white to yellow-white crystals are
small (~2 mm long and 0.5 mm across), and display a slight play on colors
giving off an iridescent blue color. Plagioclase has a hardness of 6.0, a
vitreous to pearly luster, nearly perfect 90deg. cleavage, and striations on
some crystal faces. Positive identification was made by using the X-ray
diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
material covering the metamorphic rocks. The physical properties of
limonite are highly variable owing to varying chemical composition and
habit; but at this location, it is yellowish-brown in color with a earthy
luster, pale brown to yellow streak, and very fragile.
Malachite - Cu2(CO3)(OH)2 (Hydrous Copper Carbonate)
Malachite commonly occurs as a green film on the copper-containing
metamorphic rocks. It is found mostly in granular masses, but some
radiating crystal aggregates are present. Malachite is semi-hard (3.5 -
4.0), displays good cleavage, has a vitreous to silky luster, a light green
streak, and is varying hues of green in color. It is commonly associated
with azurite.
Pyrite - FeS2 (Iron Sulfide)
Pyrite occurs as very small striated cubes and compact granular
aggregates. It can be distinguished from chalcopyrite by its higher
hardness (6.0 - 6.5), black streak, and bright metallic luster. Pyrite is also
a darker yellow color than chalcopyrite.
Quartz is present as microcrystalline masses in the fractures and contacts,
as a result of hydrothermal activity. It is also abundant throughout the
tailings piles. The quartz that has been exposed and weathered is coated
with a yellow or red-brown iron stain, whereas freshly broken samples are
of the smoky-quartz or milky-quartz variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no
cleavage, but conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Apatite - Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl, OH) (Calcium Phosphate)
Apatite ocurrs as hexagonal prismatic crystals in alkaline feldspar
granite. The crystals are stubby, and commonly terminated by pyramidal
faces, and range in size from 1 mm to 3 mm long. Apatite has a hardness
of 5.0, with a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is greenish-white in
color. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided positive identification
of this mineral.
Biotite occurs as foliated, platy aggregates in the metamorphosed diorite
and gneiss, and as disseminated plates in the granite. The crystals range in
size from <1 mm to 3 mm across. Biotite can be identified by its perfect
basal cleavage, vitreous luster, flexible sheets, and brownish-black color.
Corundum - Al2O3 (Aluminum Oxide)
The corundum occurs as small hexagonal crystals ranging in size from 1
mm to 5 mm. They are most abundant in the bed of the intermittent creek.
However, it may be neccessary to dig down two or three feet and sieve the
gravel to find them. Corundum is very hard (9.0) with an adamantine or
dull vitreous luster and is gray-black to grayish-white in color.
Garnet (almandine/pyrope) - (Fe,Mg)3Al2(SiO4)3
(Iron Magnesium Aluminum Silicate)
Almandine/pyrope garnets are found at this location. The samples are in
the garnet-biotite gneiss and display distinct dodecahedral crystal form,
have a hardness of 6.5 - 7.5, and are bright red in color. The crystals are
relatively small, ranging in size from 1 - 3 mm. Positive identification
was obtained by use of X-ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Microcline - KAlSi3O8 (Potassium Aluminum Silicate)
Microcline occurs as small prismatic crystals, ranging in size from 0.5 mm
to 5 mm, and as granular aggregates in the syenite. Microcline is hard (6.0
- 6.5), has nearly right angle cleavage, a vitreous luster, a white streak,
and is pinkish-white in color. Identification was verified by the use of the
X-ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
Muscovite mica occurs as small (~ 5 mm) thin disseminated plates in the
diorite. These flexible, elastic plates exhibit perfect basal cleavage,
Phlogopite - K(Mg,Fe)3(AlSi3)O10(F,OH)2
Phlogopite mica occurs as very small (~ 1 mm) six-sided plates in the
metamorphosed syenite. It displays perfect basal cleavage with vitreous or
pearly luster, and is yellowish-brown in color.
Pyrite occurs as very small striated cubes, ranging in size from 0.1 mm to
0.2 mm and as compact granular aggregates in the syenite. It can be
distinguished from chalcopyrite by its higher hardness (6.0 - 6.5), black
streak, and bright metallic luster. Pyrite is also a darker yellow than
chalcopyrite.
Zircon - ZrSi04 (Zirconium Silicate)
Zircon crystals ranging in size from 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm are present in the
metamorphosed syenite. The crystals are generally dipyramidal and
yellowish-brown in color. Zircon is very hard (7.5) with conchoidal
fractures and an adamantine to vitreous luster. Positive identification of
this mineral was made by using the X-ray diffractometer in the
laboratory.
Ankerite - CaFe(CO3)2 (Calcium Iron Carbonate)
Ankerite occurs as semi-rhombohedral crystals with slightly curved faces,
and as compact, fine-grained aggregates. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0
and a vitreous to pearly luster. Ankerite is generally a yellowish- white
color, but oxidation may cause it to be a yellowish-brown. This mineral is
very similar to dolomite, both physically and chemically, except for the
color. Positive identification was made with the use of the X-ray
Arsenopyrite - FeAsS (Iron Arsenic Sulfide)
Arsenopyrite is present mainly as granular aggregates, but some elongated
prismatic crystals with striated faces can be found. It is hard (5.5 - 6.0),
has a high specific gravity, metallic luster, a black streak, and is silvery-
gray in color. Identification was verified using the X-ray diffractometer
in the laboratory.
Augite - (Ca,Na)(Mg,Fe,Al,Ti)(Si,Al)2O6
(Calcium Magnesium Iron Aluminum Silicate)
Augite is present as stubby, prismatic crystals, as well as granular
aggregates in the gabbro. The physical properties vary from sample to
sample because augite is an intermediate member of a solid solution series
between Ca-rich diopside and Fe-rich hedenbergite end members. It is
hard (5.0 - 6.0) with two distinct cleavage directions at approximately
90deg. and a splintery type fracture. Augite can also be identified by its
vitreous to resinous luster, greenish-gray streak, and greenish-black color.
hydrothermal activity. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0, a high specific
gravity, no cleavage, a greenish-black streak, and a semi-metallic luster.
Chalcopyrite is dark, brassy-yellow, and is coated with an iridescent film.
Goethite is present in the form of amorphous, earthy masses. It is
probably formed from the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals. At this
location, it is very fragile, with a yellow-brown streak, an earthy luster,
and is brown in color. Identification was verified using the X-ray
The hematite occurs as compact, earthy masses and as micaceous
rhombohedral crystals. The massive form has a hardness of around 5.0, a
relatively high specific gravity, an earthy luster, reddish color, and a red-
brown streak. Hematite that occurs in the micaceous form has individual
rhombohedral crystals. The micaceous hematite is present in two distinct
arrangements. One type is referred to as lamellar (as pages in a book), and
the second type is an arrangement that resembles flower petals. Both
types display a shiny purplish-red iridescence and distinguishable lines
similar to striations on the crystal faces. This form of hematite is softer
(3.5 - 4.5) than the massive form and is gray to gray-black in color;
however, the red-brown streak is the same. Identification of this mineral
was verified by X-ray diffraction in the laboratory.
material covering the quartzite and filling the pyrite casts. The physical
properties of limonite are highly variable owing to varying chemical
composition and habit; but at this location, it is yellowish-brown in color
with a earthy luster, pale brown to yellow streak, and is very fragile.
Microcline/Albite - (Perthite) (K,Na)AlSi3O8
(Potassium Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
This sample is not an individual mineral. It occurs as a product of
exsolution with a potassium-feldspar-rich host mineral and sodium
plagioclase lamella (layers). It is hard (6.0), shows distinct, nearly right
angle cleavage, has a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is blue-gray in
color. The crystals are stubby and prismatic with penetration twins rarely
visible with a hand lens. Positive identification was attained by the use
of the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the
laboratory.
Pyrolusite - MnO2 (Manganese Oxide)
Pyrolusite occurs as dendritic, black aggregates resembling small plant
fossils (pseudo-fossils) in the fractures of the igneous and metamorphic
rocks. The dendritic form is common, but some small samples (~ 1 cm
across) in the form of black, earthy masses can also be found. Pyrolusite is
hard (6.0 - 6.5) with a relatively high specific gravity, sub-metallic luster,
and a blue-black streak.
Quartz is present as massive, microcrystalline masses in the igneous rocks,
and as very small hexagonal crystals in the fractures and voids as a result
of hydrothermal activity. It is also abundant throughout the tailings
piles. The quartz that has been exposed and weathered is coated with a
yellow or red-brown iron stain, whereas freshly broken samples are of the
smoky-quartz or milky-quartz variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no cleavage
but conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Actinolite occurs as elongated prismatic crystals in both the metamorphic
and igneous rocks. The color ranges from a light to dark green, and the
crystals exhibit perfect cleavage parallel to the elongation direction.
Actinolite is hard (5.0 - 6.0) with a vitreous to silky luster. Actinolite also
occurs in a fibrous form with the same physical properties. Positive
identification was attained by the use of the X-ray diffractometer and the
Scanning Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
Apatite - Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH) (Calcium Phosphate)
Apatite occurs as hexagonal prismatic crystals in hydrothermal veins. The
crystals are stubby, commonly terminated by pyramidal faces, and range
in size from 1 mm to 3 mm long. Apatite has a hardness of 5.0, with a
vitreous luster, a white streak, and is greenish-white in color. X-ray
diffraction in the laboratory provided positive identification of this
mineral.
Augite - (Ca,Na)(Mg,Fe,Al,Ti,)(Si,Al)2O6
(Calcium Magnesium Iron Aluminum Silicate)
The augite at this location most commonly occurs as granular greenish-
black or greenish-brown aggregates, although short, stubby, nearly square
crystals are not uncommon. The visible crystals range in size from 1 mm to
5 mm across. Augite is relatively hard (5.0 - 6.0) with two cleavage
directions at approximately 90deg. and splinter type fractures. Augite
exhibits a dull vitreous luster, has a gray-green streak, and is generally
some shade of green in color. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided
positive identification of this mineral.
Epidote - Ca2(Al,Fe)3Si3O12(OH)
(Hydrous Calcium Aluminum Iron Silicate)
Epidote is present in several forms in the contact metamorphic rocks. The
most common forms are fibrous and granular masses, but small prismatic,
greenish crystals with striated faces can be found. Epidote is hard (6.0 -
7.0) with distinct cleavage parallel to elongation direction of the crystals.
It is generally various shades of green and has a vitreous luster.
The goethite at Stop #1 is present as a pseudomorph after pyrite. The
external characteristics of the pyrite crystals have been retained, but the
pyrite has altered to goethite. Goethite has a hardness of 5.0 - 5.5, an
earthy luster, a greasy feel, and is a brownish-yellow color.
Hornblende - (Ca,Na)2-3(Mg,Fe2+,Fe3+,Al)5(Al,Si)8O22(OH)2
(Complex double chain silicate; amphibole)
Hornblende is present, along with the actinolite, in the syenite, in the
form of short, stubby, black, prismatic crystals. They are hard (5.0 - 6.0)
with uneven fractures, good prismatic cleavage, a vitreous luster, and a
yellow-white streak. Positive identification was attained by the use of
the X-ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
material covering the quartzite and filling the pyrite casts. The physical
properties of limonite are highly variable owing to varying chemical
composition and habit; but at this location, it is yellowish-brown in color
with a earthy luster, pale brown to yellow streak, and is very fragile.
quartz veins. It is found mostly in granular masses, but some radiating
crystal aggregates are present. Malachite is semi-hard (3.5 - 4.0), displays
good cleavage, has a vitreous to silky luster, a light green streak, and is
varying hues of green in color. It is commonly associated with azurite, but
azurite was not found.
angle cleavage, has a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is white in color.
The crystals are large, ranging in size from approximately 2 cm wide to as
much as 5 cm long, up to very large (2 cm wide and 10 cm long) crystals in
the syenite. Positive identification was attained by the use of the X-ray
diffractometer, and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
aggregates, mainly in the quartz in the hydrothermal veins. It can be
distinguished from chalcopyrite by its higher hardness (6.0 - 6.5), black
streak, and bright metallic luster. Pyrite is also a darker yellow color than
chalcopyrite.
Quartz is present as massive, compact, concretionary masses in the
igneous rocks, and as very small hexagonal crystals in the fractures and
voids as a result of hydrothermal activity. The quartz that has been
exposed and weathered is coated with a yellow or red-brown iron stain,
whereas freshly broken samples are milky-quartz. It is hard (7.0), shows
no cleavage but conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous
luster.
Titanite (Sphene) - CaTiSiO5 (Calcium Titanium Silicate)
Titanite is present in the igneous rocks and metamorphic contacts as flat,
stubby, wedge-shaped crystals. It is relatively hard (5.0 - 5.5), has a fairly
high specific gravity, an adamantine or resinous luster, and is a honey-
brown color. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided positive
identification of this mineral.
Albite/Microcline - (Antiperthite) (Na,K)AlSi3O8
(Sodium Potassium Aluminum Silicate)
exsolution with a sodium-plagioclase-rich host mineral and potassium
feldspar lamella (layers). It is hard (6.0), shows distinct, nearly right angle
cleavage, has a vitreous luster, a white streak and is grayish-pink in color.
The crystals are bladed, with striations visible with a hand lens only on
rare specimens. Positive identification was attained by the use of the X-
ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the
laboratory.
hydrothermal activity. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0, a high specific
gravity, a greenish-black streak, and a semimetallic luster. Chalcopyrite is
dark, brassy-yellow in color and is coated with an iridescent film.
Ferroactinolite - Ca2Fe5Si8O22(OH)2 (Calcium Iron Silicate)
Ferroactinolite occurs as aggregates of elongated prismatic crystals in the
mafic metamorphic rocks and intrusive igneous gabbro. It has a hardness
of 5.0 - 6.0, perfect 60deg./120deg. prismatic cleavage, a vitreous luster,
and is greenish-black in color. It is the iron-rich end-member of the
tremolite-actinolite-ferroactinolite solid-solution series.
Gold - Au (Native Element)
Gold is present, in minute amounts, as very small, shapeless grains and
flakes. It is fairly soft (2.5 - 3.0) and malleable. The gold occurs in pyrite
casts where the pyrite and limonite have weathered out, leaving the gold
along the sides and base of the cast.
angle cleavage, has a vitreous luster, a white streak and is blue-gray in
color. The crystals are stubby and prismatic with penetration twins
visible with a hand lens on rare specimens. Positive identification was
attained by the use of the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron
Sulfur - S (Native Element)
Sulfur occurs as very fine granular aggregates and encrustations, which
are probably an alteration product of pyrite. It has a yellowish-brown
color, very soft (1.5 - 2.5), extremely fragile with poor cleavage, and has a
resinous to earthy luster. Identification of this mineral was verified by X-
ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Titanite (sphene) - CaTiSiO5 (Calcium Titanium Silicate)
Titanite is present in the igneous rocks as flat, stubby, wedge-shaped
crystals. It is relatively hard (5.0 - 5.5), has a fairly high specific gravity,
an adamantine or resinous luster, and is a honey-brown color. X-ray
diffraction in the laboratory provided positive identification of this
mineral.
Aragonite - CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate)
Aragonite occurs as small, acicular (needle-like), radiating
crystals within the vugs of the basalt. These elongated prismatic crystals
are semi-hard (3.5 - 4.0) and very fragile with a vitreous luster, a white
streak, and a brownish-yellow to white color.
The calcite is yellowish to white and is found as a secondary coating or
filling in the fractures in the basalt. Calcite is easily identified by its
concretionary form, hardness (3.0), and effervescent reaction with dilute
hydrochloric acid.
The plagioclase feldspar present at this location is a solid solution
between anorthite and albite end-members and contains equal amounts of
calcium and sodium. The elongated, white to yellow to yellowish- green
crystals are small (~ 2 mm long and 0.5 mm across), and display a slight
play on colors giving off an iridescent blue color. Plagioclase has a
hardness of 6.0, a vitreous to pearly luster, nearly perfect 90deg. cleavage,
and striations on some crystal faces. Positive identification was made by
using the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in
the laboratory.
material covering the basalt. The physical properties of limonite are highly
variable owing to varying chemical composition and habit, but at this
location it is yellowish-brown in color with a earthy luster, pale brown to
yellow streak, and is very fragile.
Nontronite - Na0.3Fe2(Al,Si)4O10(OH)2(H2O)4 (Clay Mineral)
Nontronite is a secondary mineral formed by the weathering of the
aluminum silicates in the basalt. It occurs as microcrystalline masses
filling the vugs in the basalt. It is extremely soft (1.5 - 2.0) and commonly
has a dull or earthy luster, except on very fresh surfaces, where a vitreous
luster is displayed. As soon as the samples are exposed to the atmosphere,
the luster quality decreases and the color changes from a pale blue to a
dull greenish blue. The identification of this mineral was verified using
the X-ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
Olivine - (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 (Magnesium Iron Silicate)
The olivine at this location occurs mainly as very small crystals in the
basalt. However, it can also be found as small, stubby, prismatic crystals
that are visible with the naked eye or with a hand lens. Olivine has a
hardness of 6.5 - 7.0, conchoidal fractures, a vitreous luster, and is
yellow-green or olive-green in color.
Opal - SiO2*nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The white or clear opal is found in a massive microcrystalline form filling
the vugs in the basalt. The differences in color of the opal samples may be
due to varying impurities in the specimens. Opal is relatively easy to
identify. It has a hardness of 5.5 - 6.5, low specific gravity, and a
vitreous or greasy luster. It is also fragile with very small conchoidal
fractures present in nearly all of the samples.
Actinolite occurs as striated, elongated prismatic crystals in both the
metamorphic and igneous rocks. The color ranges from a light to dark
green, and the crystals exhibit perfect cleavage parallel to the elongation
direction. Actinolite is hard (5.0 - 6.0) with a vitreous to silky luster.
Actinolite also occurs in a fibrous form with the same physical properties.
diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
filling in the fractures in the metamorphic rocks. Calcite is easily
identified by its concretionary form, hardness (3.0), and effervescent
reaction with dilute hydrochloric acid.
Epidote - Ca2(Al,Fe)3Si3O12(OH)
(Hydrous Calcium Aluminum Iron Silicate)
Epidote is present in several forms in the contact metamorphic rocks. The
most common forms are fibrous and granular masses, but small prismatic,
greenish crystals with striated faces can be found. Epidote is hard (6.0 -
7.0) with distinct cleavage parallel to elongation direction of the crystals.
It is generally various shades of green and has a vitreous luster.
Quartz is present as massive, microcrystalline masses in the fractures and
voids as a result of hydrothermal activity. The quartz that has been
exposed and weathered is coated with a yellow or red-brown iron stain,
wheras freshly broken samples are milky-quartz. It is hard (7.0), shows no
cleavage but conchoidal fractures are evident, and it has a vitreous luster.
Scapolite - (Na,Ca,K)4Al3(Al,Si)3Si16O24(Cl,SO4,CO3)
(Complex Silicate)
Scapolite occurs as microgranular masses or aggregates in and on the
metamorphic rocks at this site. Some very small prismatic crystals can be
seen with the aid of a hand lens. Scapolite has a hardness of 5.0 - 6.5,
very poor cleavage, a dull vitreous luster, and is grayish-white in color.
fossils (pseudo-fossils). The dendritic form is the most common type, but
some small samples (~ 1 mm across) in the form of black, earthy masses
can also be found. Pyrolusite is hard (6.0 - 6.5) with a relatively high
specific gravity, sub metallic luster, and a blue-black streak.
Red Opal - SiO2*nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The red opal occurs primarily as botryoidal, globular masses on the outside
of the basalt. It also occurs in a fibrous, radiating, acicular form coating
the basalt and filling the vugs in the basalts.
White or Clear Opal - SiO2*nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The white or clear opal is found as botryoidal, globular masses encrusting
the basalt, as well as being present within the vugs in the basalt. The
white opal also occurs in a fibrous, radiating, acicular form coating the
basalt and filling the vugs in the basalts.
The differences in color of the opal samples may be due to varying
impurities in the specimens. Opal is relatively easy to identify. It has a
hardness of 5.5 - 6.5, low specific gravity, and a vitreous or greasy luster.
It is also fragile with very small conchoidal fractures present in nearly all
of the samples.
Wood Opal - SiO2*nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
This variety of opal is formed by silica replacement of fibers in fossilized
wood. The original texture and detail of the wood material is preserved in
mineral form. It is present as microcrystalline masses ranging in size from
2 to 6 cm in diameter.
Albite (plagioclase feldspar) - NaAlSi3O8
(Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
Albite is present as small bladed crystals or weathered granular masses in
the pegmatite. Owing to its size, habit, and similarity to other feldspar
minerals, positive identification is very difficult in hand sample. The use
of the X-ray diffractometer and observation of the optical properties
provided definite identification.
Beryl - Be3Al2Si6O18 (Beryllium Aluminum Silicate)
Beryl occurs in the pegmatites as hexagonal prisms without terminations.
The color varies from yellowish-white to pale-green. The hexagonal
crystals vary in size from 1 cm across and 2 to 3 cm in length to as large
as 8 cm across and 15 cm long. It is very hard (7.5 - 8.0) with a vitreous
luster and a white streak. The samples contain inclusions of quartz, and
are weathered, fractured, and fragile.
crystals range in size from <1 mm to 5 cm and are the primary constituent
of the mica schist in this area. Biotite can be identified by its perfect basal
cleavage, vitreous luster, flexible sheets, and brownish-black color.
Garnet - (almandine-pyrope) - (Fe,Mg)3Al2(SiO4)3
The garnets found at this location are almandine/pyrope. The samples are
in the pegmatite and display distinct dodecahedral crystal form, have a
hardness of 6.5 - 7.5, and are bright red in color. The crystals are
relatively small, ranging in size from 1 to 3 mm. Positive identification
was obtained through the use of X-ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Muscovite occurs as foliated, tabular, pseudo-hexagonal crystals in the
granite pegmatite and at the contact between the pegmatite and the
metamorphic rocks. Some of the sheets are as large as 20 to 30 cm across,
although smaller crystals in the 1 to 5 cm range are more common. The
muscovite has perfect basal cleavage into thin, flexible, elastic sheets. It is
soft (2 - 2.5) and is primarily yellow-brown in color where occurring in
thick, foliated books, but clear colored where present in thin sheets.
Phlogopite occurs as very small (~ 1 to 2 mm) plates in the metamorphic
rocks. It can be identified by its basal cleavage, vitreous luster, and
yellowish-brown color.
Quartz is present as microcrystalline masses in the pegmatite, as well as
being abundant throughout the tailings piles. The quartz that has been
exposed is coated with a yellow or red-brown iron stain, whereas the
quartz in the pegmatite is more of the smoky-quartz or milky-quartz
variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no cleavage but conchoidal fractures are
evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Tourmaline (schorl) -
(Na,Ca) (Mg, Fe2+,Fe3+,Al,Mn,Li)3Al6(B03)3(Si6O18)(OH,F)4
(Complex Borosilicate)
The schorl variety of tourmaline is rich in iron and sodium. It occurs as
elongated, black prismatic crystals with vertical striations in the mica
schist, and short, stubby, black crystals in the pegmatite. The elongated
crystals are commonly 1 to 4 mm across and 1 to 2 cm long. Tourmaline is
very hard (7.0) with conchoidal fractures and a vitreous luster. The luster
changes to resinous on the fractured surfaces.
Arsenopyrite - FeAsS (Iron Arsenic Sulfide)
Arsenopyrite occurs as slightly elongated prismatic crystals ranging in size
from 1 mm to as large as 1 cm, and granular aggregates in the
hydrothermal vein and metamorphic rocks. It is relatively hard (5.5 - 6.0)
with a metallic luster and a black streak.
Azurite - Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2 (Hydrous Copper Carbonate)
Azurite occurs as very small, striated, tabular, prismatic, radiating,
intergrown crystals in the rocks found in the hydrothermal veins, and as a
granular film coating the copper-bearing metamorphic rocks. This
secondary copper mineral is semi-hard (3.5 - 4.0), displays good cleavage
with a vitreous luster and a pale blue streak. It is commonly associated
with malachite. Positive identification was attained by the use of the X-
ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
Bornite - Cu5FeS4 (Copper Iron Sulfide)
Bornite can be found as octahedral crystals at this location, but it is more
likely to be found as compact granular masses. It commonly displays a
reddish-bronze color, which is tarnished to an iridescent purple and blue
film. The old miners referred to bornite as "Peacock Ore." Bornite has a
hardness of 3.0, a high specific gravity, a gray-black streak, and a metallic
luster.
Brochantite - Cu4(SO4)(OH)6 (Hydrous Copper Sulfate)
Brochantite is present in granular form in veins in the adit, although
some small prismatic crystals (~2 mm) can be found. It is light blue-green
in color with a vitreous to pearly luster and a light green streak. The
brochantite is very weathered, fragile, and difficult to identify in hand
sample owing to its physical similarity to other copper sulfate and copper
carbonate minerals. Identification of this mineral was verified by X-ray
diffraction in the laboratory.
Chalcocite - Cu2S (Copper Sulfide)
Chalcocite exists primarily in the form of granular aggregates in the
hydrothermal sulfide deposit. It is soft (2.5) with a metallic luster, a dark
gray streak, and conchoidal fractures. It commonly is associated with
cuprite, malachite, and azurite. Tabular crystals with striated faces can
be found, but they are uncommon.
hydrothermal activity and metamorphism. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0, a
high specific gravity, lacks cleavage, a greenish-black streak, and a semi-
metallic luster. Chalcopyrite is dark, brassy yellow in color and is coated
with an iridescent film. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided
positive identification of this mineral.
Cuprite - Cu2O (Copper Oxide)
Cuprite is present in the form of very small (< 1 mm) elongated
cubic/dodecaheral crystals. It has a hardness of approximately 4.0 with a
dull adamantine luster and a bright red streak. Cuprite is a dark red color
and is altered to malachite on exposed surfaces. X-ray diffraction in the
laboratory provided positive identification of this mineral.
Copper - Cu (Native Element)
Small amounts of copper can be found as compact, filiform masses. It
displays the characteristic copper-red color on fresh surfaces. However,
most samples are coated with a greenish malachite film or a blackish or
iridescent film. Copper is soft (2.5 - 3.0), very heavy, and malleable with a
metallic luster.
material covering the metamorphic rocks. The physical properties of
limonite are highly variable owing to varying chemical composition and
habit, but at this location, it is yellowish-brown in color with an earthy
luster, pale brown to yellow streak, and is very fragile.
metamorphic rocks. It is found mostly in granular masses, but some
radiating crystal aggregates are present. Malachite is semi-hard (3.5 -
4.0), displays good cleavage, has a vitreous to silky luster, a light green
streak, and is varying hues of green. It is commonly associated with
azurite. Positive identification was attained by the use of the X-ray
a darker yellow color than chalcopyrite. X-ray diffraction in the
laboratory provided positive identification of this mineral.
Pyrrhotite - Fe1-xS (Iron Sulfide)
Pyrrhotite occurs mainly as massive, granular aggregates in the
hydrothermal vein and the metamorphic rocks surrounding the mine. Very
small tabular crystals are less common. It has a hardness of around 4.0, a
metallic luster, is slightly magnetic, and is bronzish- black in color.
Quartz is present as microcrystalline masses in the fractures and contacts
as a result of hydrothermal activity. It is also abundant throughout the
tailings piles. The quartz that has been exposed and weathered is coated
with a yellow or red-brown iron stain, whereas freshly broken samples are
of the smoky-quartz or milky-quartz variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no
cleavage, but conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Staurolite - (Fe,Mg,Zn)2Al9Si4O23(OH)
(Hydrous Iron Magnesium Aluminum Silicate)
Staurolite occurs as prismatic crystals, up to 4 cm long, in the schist
surrounding the mine site. The surface of the mineral is covered with a
dull earthy coating resulting from alteration processes. Removing the
coating reveals crystals that are brownish- black in color, display a
resinous or vitreous luster, and have a hardness of about 7.0. Single
crystal occurrences are the most common, but samples exhibiting cruciform
twinning can be found.
Tourmaline (schorl) -
(Na,Ca) (Mg, Fe2+,Fe3+,Al,Mn,Li)3Al6(B03)3(Si6O18)(OH,F)4
(Complex Borosilicate)
The schorl variety of tourmaline is rich in iron and sodium. It occurs as
elongated, black prismatic crystals with vertical striations in the mica
schist. The elongated crystals are commonly 1 to 4 mm across and 0.5 to 1
cm long, and are in the form of radiating or parallel aggregates.
Tourmaline is very hard (7.0) with conchoidal fractures and a vitreous
luster. The luster changes to resinous on the fractured surfaces.
Zinnwaldite (?) - KLiFe3+Al(AlSi3)O10(F,OH)2
Zinnwaldite is present as tabular or bladed crystals in the hydrothermal
vein in conjunction with quartz. It is soft (2.5 - 3.0) with prominent
basal cleavage, a vitreous to greasy luster, and is silvery-black in color. X-
ray diffraction patterns match those for zinnwaldite, but chemical
analysis is needed for positive identification.
Chabazite - Ca(Al2Si4)O12*6H2O
(Hydrated Calcium Aluminum Silicate)
Chabazite occurs as rhombohedral crystals within vugs and fractures of
the basalt. It is semi-hard (4 - 5), with rhombohedral cleavage, vitreous
luster, and a white streak. The crystals are very large, commonly 3 to 5
mm across, with some being as large up to 1 cm in diameter and white in
color with penetration twinning in all the samples. Green chabazite is
also found in massive form underneath the white rhombohedral crystals.
Identification of this mineral was verified by X-ray diffraction in the
laboratory.
The plagioclase feldspar found at this location is a solid solution between
anorthite and albite end-members and contains equal amounts of calcium
and sodium. The elongated, white to yellow-white to yellow-green
crystals range in size from 3 mm long and 1 mm wide up to 2 cm long and
1 cm wide, and display a slight play on colors yielding an iridescent blue.
Plagioclase has a hardness of 6.0, a vitreous to pearly luster, nearly
perfect 90deg. cleavage, and striations on some crystal faces. Positive
identification was made by using the X-ray diffractometer and the
Scanning Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
Pyrite is a secondary mineral occurring in the form of very small cubic
crystals on the basalt. It can be identified by its brassy yellow color and
cubic habit.
Actinolite occurs as elongated prismatic crystals in the metamorphic rocks.
The color ranges from a light to dark green, and the crystals exhibit
perfect cleavage parallel to the elongation direction. Actinolite is hard
(5.0 - 6.0) with a vitreous to silky luster. Actinolite also occurs in a
fibrous form with the same physical properties. Positive identification
was attained by the use of the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning
Electron Microscope in the laboratory.
Apatite (fluorapatite) - Ca5(PO4)3(F) (Phosphate)
Apatite occurs as hexagonal prismatic crystals in alkaline feldspar
granite. The crystals are stubby and commonly terminated by pyramidal
faces, and range in size from 1 mm to 3 mm long. Apatite has a hardness
of 5.0, with a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is greenish-white in
color. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided positive identification
of this mineral.
Biotite occurs as foliated, platy aggregates in the metamorphic rocks and
as disseminated plates in the granite. The crystals range in size from <1
mm to 3 mm across. Biotite can be identified by its perfect basal cleavage,
vitreous luster, flexible sheets, and brownish-black color.
material covering the quartzite. The physical properties of limonite are
highly variable owing to varying chemical composition and habit, but at
this location, it is yellowish-brown in color with a earthy luster, pale
brown to yellow streak, and very fragile.
Microcline - KAlSi3O8 (Potassium Aluminum Silicate)
Microcline occurs as small prismatic crystals and as granular aggregates
in the alkaline feldspar granite and as large 6 to 10 cm long crystals in the
granite pegmatite. Microcline is hard (6.0 - 6.5), has nearly right angle
cleavage, a vitreous luster, a white streak, and is pinkish-white in color.
Identification was verified by the use of the X-ray diffractometer in the
laboratory.
granitic rocks. The crystals are in the 1 to 5 cm range. Muscovite has
perfect basal cleavage and thin, flexible, and elastic sheets. It is soft (2 -
2.5) and is primarily yellow-brown in color in thick, foliated books, but
clear where found in thin sheets.
Phlogopite mica occurs as very small (~ 1 mm) six-sided plates in the
granititic rocks. It displays perfect basal cleavage with vitreous or pearly
luster, and is a yellowish-brown color.
fossils (pseudo-fossils). The dendritic form is the most common type, but
some small samples (~ 1 mm across) in the form of black, earthy masses
can also be found. Pyrolusite is hard (6.0 - 6.5) with a relatively high
specific gravity, sub-metallic luster, and a blue-black streak.
Quartz occurs as small microcrystalline grains in the alkaline feldspar
granite and as large massive aggregates in the granite pegmatite.
The quartz that has been exposed and weathered is coated with a yellow
or red-brown iron stain, whereas freshly broken samples are of the smoky-
quartz or milky-quartz variety. It is hard (7.0), shows no cleavage, but
conchoidal fractures are evident, and has a vitreous luster.
Titanite (sphene) - CaTiSiO5 (Calcium Titanium Silicate)
Titanite is present in the alkaline feldspar granite as small, (< 1 mm) flat,
stubby, wedge-shaped crystals. It is relatively hard (5.0 - 5.5), has a fairly
high specific gravity, an adamantine or resinous luster, and is a honey-
brown color. X-ray diffraction in the laboratory provided positive
identification of this mineral.
Tremolite - Ca2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2
(Hydrous Calcium Magnesium Silicate)
Tremolite occurs as elongated prismatic crystals in the metamorphic rocks.
The color ranges from a light green to white and the crystals exhibit
perfect cleavage parallel to the elongation direction. Tremolite is hard (5.0
- 6.0) with a vitreous to silky luster. Tremolite also occurs in a fibrous
form with the same physical properties. Positive identification was
attained by the use of the X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron
filling in the fractures in the basalts. Calcite is easily identified by its
concretionary form, hardness (3.0), and effervescent reaction with dilute
hydrochloric acid.
Goethite occurs as a thin, brown, poorly crystalline coating over the
botryoidal siderite. It can be distinguished from siderite by its higher
degree of hardness (5.0 - 5.5) and dark brown to black color. X-ray
diffraction analysis verified the identification.
Brown Opal - SiO2 * nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The brown opal can be found in microcrystalline masses ranging in size
from granular to 4 to 6 cm in diameter.
Black Opal - SiO2 * nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The black opal is also found as microcrystalline masses which range in
size from granular to 4 to 6 cm in diameter.
White Opal - SiO2 * nH2O (Hydrous Silicon Oxide)
The white opal occurs mainly in globular masses on the outside of the
basalt.
The three varieties of 'opal' are identifiable in the field. Opal has a
hardness of 5.5 - 6.5 with a relatively low specific gravity. It has a
vitreous or greasy luster, and conchoidal fractures are common on nearly
all samples. The differences in color of the samples may be due to varying
impurities in the specimen. The three samples also have varying
crystallinity based upon X-ray analysis.
Siderite - FeCO3 (Iron Carbonate)
Siderite is found as botryoidal globular masses within the vugs in the
basalt. It has a hardness of 3.5 - 4.0 with a bright vitreous luster and a
white streak. The color varies from a very pale brown to a pale yellow.
The spheres are thinly coated with brown goethite, and range in size from
1 to 5 mm. Identification of this mineral was verified by the use of X-ray
diffraction in the laboratory.
Biotite mica occurs as relatively small (~ 5 mm) disseminated plates or
platy aggregates in the sillimanite-mica schist. The individual plates are
flexible and elastic with very pronounced vitreous luster. They also have
perfect basal cleavage and are blackish-brown in color.
Brochantite - Cu4(SO4)(OH)6 (Hydrous Copper Sulfate)
Brochantite is present in granular form in veins in the adit, although
some small prismatic crystals (~2 mm) are present. It is light blue-green in
color with a vitreous to pearly luster and a light green streak. The
brochantite is very weathered, very fragile, and difficult to identify in
hand sample owing to its physical similarity to other copper sulfate and
copper carbonate minerals. Identification of this mineral was verified by
X-ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Garnet - (Fe,Mg)3Al2(SiO4)3 (Iron, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate)
The garnets present at this location have almandine/pyrope chemistry.
They are present in schistose veins in the adit as large crystals (1 to 3 cm),
and in the mica schist around the adit entrance in smaller sizes (1 to 5
mm). The samples from the veins exhibit distinct dodecahedral crystal
form, have a hardness of 6.5 - 7.5, and vary in color from dark reddish-
brown to purple. The smaller garnets in the schist are brighter red and less
weathered than the ones found in the adit, but still have the distinctive
crystal form. Positive identification was obtained through the use of X-
ray diffraction in the laboratory.
Muscovite mica occurs as small (~5 mm) thin disseminated plates in the
sillimanite-mica schist. These flexible, elastic plates exhibit perfect basal
cleavage, prominent vitreous luster, and a silvery or yellowish-white color.
Phlogopite occurs as very small (~ 1 mm) six-sided plates in the
sillimanite-mica schist. It displays perfect basal cleavage with vitreous or
pearly luster and is yellowish-brown in color.
Quartz is present as small (1 to 3 mm) gray, granular masses in pegmatite
dikes cross-cutting the schist. It can be identified by its hardness (7.0),
lack of cleavage, vitreous luster, and pale gray to white color.
Sillimanite - Al2SiO5 (Aluminum Silicate)
Sillimanite occurs as long, slender, fibrous crystals within the mica-
sillimanite schists and as individual crystals in veins located inside the
adits. The crystals are 0.5 to 1.5 cm long and vary slightly in color from a
yellowish-white in the veins to gray in the schist. The yellowish white
sillimanite has been weathered and is very fragile, but the crystals in the
schist have a hardness of 6 - 7 with a vitreous or pearly luster.
Albite (plagioclase) - NaAlSi3O8 (Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
Albite occurs as small prismatic or bladed crystals in the granodiorite. The
crystals are commonly 1 to 2 mm long and 0.5 to 1 mm wide with
striations visible, with the aid of a hand lens, on some fresh surfaces.
Albite is hard (6.0 - 6.5) with nearly right angle cleavage, a vitreous
luster, and a white streak. The color of albite varies, at this location, from
a very pale green to a greenish-white. Positive identification was attained
by the use of the X-ray diffractometer in the laboratory.
Biotite occurs as foliated, platy aggregates and as individual thin sheets
in the granodiorite. The crystals range in size from <1 mm in the
granodiorite to 5 cm across in the pegmatites. Biotite can be identified by
its perfect basal cleavage, vitreous luster, flexible sheets, and brownish-
black color.
Garnet - (almandine-pyrope) - (Fe,Mg)3Al2(SiO4)3
The garnets found at this location have almandine/pyrope chemistry. The
samples are in the pegmatite and display distinct dodecahedral crystal
form, have a hardness of 6.5 - 7.5 and are bright red in color. The crystals
are relatively small, ranging in size from 1 to 3 mm. Positive
identification was obtained through the use to X-ray diffraction in the
laboratory.
material covering the granitic rocks and filling in the voids created by
fracturing. The physical properties of limonite are highly variable owing
to varying chemical composition and habit, but at this location it is
yellowish-brown in color with a earthy luster, pale brown to yellow
streak, and very fragile.
angle cleavage, has a vitreous luster, a white streak and is white in color.
The crystals are large, ranging in size from approximately 2 cm wide to as
much as 5 cm long. Positive identification was attained by the use of the
X-ray diffractometer and the Scanning Electron Microscope in the
laboratory.
granodiorite. Some are as large as 5 to 8 cm across, although smaller
crystals in the 1 to 5 cm range are more common. The muscovite has
perfect basal cleavage in thin, flexible, elastic sheets. It is soft (2 - 2.5)
and is primarily a yellow-brown color in thick, foliated books, but clear
where found in thin sheets.
BELT SUPERGROUP ROCKS
Background Information
Meta-sedimentary rocks of the Belt Supergroup extend from western
Montana through northern Idaho and into bordering parts of
Washington and British Columbia. Lithologically, the rocks of the Belt
Supergroup can be described as a thick sequence of alternating argillite,
siltite, and quartzite with minor carbonate. The effects of low grade
metamorphism are reflected in the recrystallized textures, but the
metamorphism has not destroyed the sedimentary features at every
outcrop.
From bottom to top, the major units of the Belt rocks in northern Idaho
are: Prichard, Burke, Revett, St. Regis, Wallace, Striped Peak, and Libby
Formations. The Burke, Revett, and St. Regis Formations are members of
the Ravalli Group and the Striped Peak and Libby Formations constitute
the Missoula Group. The rocks of the Belt Supergroup attain a maximum
thickness of 67,000 feet (Harrison, 1972).
Rocks of the Belt Supergroup range from approximately 1,450 to 850
million years old; and the sediments forming them were deposited in what
may have been a slowly subsiding marginal re-entrant that trends north
to northwest, commonly referred to as the Belt Basin (Harrison, 1972).
South and southwest of the basin, along the St. Joe River drainage,
progressive metamorphism of the Belt rocks has made identification of the
units much more difficult. Regionally, metamorphism increases from
zeolite facies in the northeast to amphibolite facies in the southwest
where pre-Belt and Belt terrains encounter the Idaho Batholith
(Hietanen, 1963, 1968; Harrison, 1972; Reid and others, 1973; Reid and
others, 1981). The degree of metamorphism also increases downwards in
sections where siltite, argillite, and quartzite have been transformed into
recrystallized, foliated schist and quartzose gneiss. However, in most
places even with the high metamorphism, the units can be mapped
separately (Hietanen, 1963, 1968; Harrison, 1972; and Reid and others,
1981).
There is so little variation in rock type, grain size, and color that, to many
workers, the Belt rocks are monotonous in appearance (Harrison and
Grimes, 1970). However, where metamorphism has not been intense,
sedimentary structures such as cross-beds, ripple marks, parallel
laminations, load casts, mud cracks, and stromatolites are well preserved.
These structures, where present, have been used to help define rock units
and to interpret depositional environments.
The Belt Supergroup consists of the following five basic rock types: (a)
very fine-grained to fine-grained quartzite and arkosic quartzite; (b)
siltite and argillitic siltite; (c) laminated black argillite and white or green
siltite; (d) argillite and silty argillite; and (e) carbonate rocks. Nearly
identical rock types commonly occur in several formations or in at least
two members of a single formation. Green to gray-green, thin-bedded to
laminated siltite or argillitic siltite is abundant throughout most of the
sequence and, therefore, is the least useful of all the rock types for
identification of stratigraphic position. Differences among the similar
rock units are subtle, but many of these differences are useful for
mapping.
Individual Latah County Formations
There are three specific formations thought to be present in north-central
Latah County from the Laird Park area northward to and beyond the
Benawah-Latah county line. In the immediate Laird Park vicinity,
approximately 3.5 miles east and 2 miles southeast of Harvard, rock types
similar to the Wallace and Revett Formations exist.
The Wallace Formation is about 10,200 feet thick (Harrison and Jobin,
1965). The formation is the most heterogeneous and is the principal
carbonate-bearing formation of the entire Belt sequence. The common rock
types are: (a) black and white or green thinly interlaminated argillite and
siltite; (b) green siltite thinly interbedded with argillitic green siltite; (c)
blue-gray laminated dolomitic limestone; (d) greenish-gray, very thin
bedded dolomitic or calcareous siltite and dolomitic or calcareous argillitic
siltite; (e) black laminated silty argillite; (f) white laminated dolomitic
quartzite; and (g) laminated waxy green argillite. Outcrops located along
the Palouse River Road, from 0.5 to 1.0 mile southeast of the junction
with State Highway 6, contain banded argillite and silty argillite along
with calcareous, dolomitic, and scapolitic features. The white blebs and
masses of scapolite are also indicators of the Wallace Formation.
Scapolite is a complex of potassium, calcium, aluminum silicate mineral
associated with metamorphosed calcium-rich rocks.
An outcrop believed to belong to the Revett Formation is located
approximately 1.7 miles from the State 6 junction on the left hand side of
the road east of Laird Park. The Revett Formation is about 2,000 feet
thick (Harrison and Jobin, 1963). Lithologically it is the most
homogenous unit of the Belt Supergroup. The quartzite is mostly fine-
grained and relatively pure. It is distinguishable by its beds of blocky
white to gray, cross-bedded quartzite. Laminated green argillite is also
common in the Revett. The sedimentary structures include cross-beds,
ripple marks, mudcracks, and mud-chip breccias. The exposure at this
location is dominated by blocky, gray quartzite. The quartzite is cross-
laminated with bands which may follow depositional bedding
laminations. The outcrop displays an excellent cross-sectional view of a
large channel approximately twenty feet across. A fault is exposed on the
western end of the exposure where the quartzite is highly brecciated
across a twenty-five foot thick zone.
The third formation thought to exist in Latah county is the Libby
Formation. This formation is present mainly in the extreme north-central
part of the county south of the North South Ski Bowl. The Libby
Formation in this area is an incomplete sequence as its top has been
removed by erosion. Exposed portions of this formation consist of
laminated black argillite and white siltite, green to gray cherty argillite
and siltite that contains carbonate minerals, green to tan silty limestone
and dolomite, and a few beds of calcareous and cherty stromatolites and
oolites.
Mud cracks and ripple marks are abundant throughout the formation,
and mud-chip breccia is characteristic of the carbonate-bearing siltites and
argillites. Chert occurs as pale green layers and lenses in laminated green
argillite and siltite, as pale green chips in some of the mud-chip breccias,
and as black layers or irregular patches that transect layering in the
stromatolites and oolites. Oolites, where present, are in beds just below
stromatolitic units.
IDAHO BATHOLITH
The Idaho Batholith, which occupies much of central Idaho, is
approximately 250 miles long and 80 miles wide and it surrounded by
regionally metamorphosed rocks (Hamilton and Myers, 1967). The
batholith consists of a complex group of plutons which range in age from
Cretaceous to Early Tertiary (Armstrong and others, 1977; Bickford and
others, 1981). The large body can be subdivided into two separate lobes,
the northern Bitterroot lobe and the southern Atlantic lobe. Both regions
are underlain by massive granite, granodiorite, and quartz diorite.
According to Shuster and Bickford (1985), the most voluminous rock is a
weakly foliated, medium-grained two-mica granite with K-feldspar
megacrysts. In numerous areas, considerable schist and gneiss are
interspersed with the granitic rocks.
The contacts between country rocks and the batholith are, in places, wide
and generally gradational changing from granite to gneissic granite. The
general lithologies and the sequences of the country rocks suggest
correlation with the Prichard Formation, Ravalli Group, and the Wallace
Formation of the Belt Supergroup (Hyndman and Williams, 1977; Reid
and others, 1979). These rocks range from metasedimentary rocks to
sillimanite-grade metasedimentary country rocks. Inclusions are common
in the granites adjacent to contacts, and the abundance decreases away
from those contacts (Shuster and Bickford, 1985).
The main phase of igneous intrusion ranges in age from 66 million years to
46 million years (Nelson, 1981). Shuster and Bickford (1985) reported a
date of 46 m.y. for one of the youngest intrusions, and Webster and
Nunez (1981) reported a date of 67.8 m.y. for granitic rocks near Viola,
Idaho north of Moscow.
The origin of the Idaho Batholith is controversial. Shuster and Bickford
(1985, p. 738) stated that their date "indicates that the source of the
granite was not the exposed intruded country rocks, but was depleted
lower crust that is heterogeneous, Proterozoic in age, aluminum rich, and
has garnets as a residual phase."
Latah County Intrusions
In Latah County there is a large area of intrusive rocks that extends
across the county from the northeastern corner to the Idaho and
Washington state line, north and south of Moscow. These rocks underlie
such areas as the Thatuna Hills, Paradise Ridge, Bald Butte, and the
Palouse Range. Because this plutonic mass is isolated from, and appears
to be independent of the Idaho Batholith, Tullis (1944) referred to these
rocks as the Thatuna Batholith. There has not been any detailed work on
these rocks since Tullis, but here they are considered to be related to the
Idaho Batholith. The dates of 69.8 m.y. and 67.8 m.y. respectively, for
rocks from the Palouse Range (Webster and Nunez, 1981) and from Bald
Butte (Hooper and Webster, 1982) place them in the Cretaceous and
within the age range of the Idaho Batholith.
Tullis (1944) reported that granodiorite, adamellite, tonalite, and granite
each makeup considerable masses and form the principal intrusions.
Typical rocks are light-gray and equigranular but the textures may be
gneissic, porphyritic, and pegmatitic. The principal visible minerals are
quartz, feldspar, and biotite. Muscovite is common in places, as well as
garnet and epidote. Hornblende is present in the quartz-deficient rock
types. Microcline, orthoclase, and albite are the principal feldspars. Other
lesser rocks include diorite, aplite, granodiorite porphyry and lamprophyre
dikes.
Granite pegmatite and aplite dikes are locally present and, at times, have
been mined for mica in the Avon district near Deary, Idaho. The
pegmatite is in contact with schist and minor gneiss of the Belt
Supergroup rocks. The beds of schist are gray or silvery white that
weather to an iron brown color. Layers of mica gneiss are interbedded
with the schist. The introduction of aplite and pegmatite presumably
accompanied the intrusion of the underlying Idaho Batholith because
narrow dikes and sills cut both the schist and gneiss at several localities.
According to Stoll (1950), there were about 100 pegmatite dikes and sills
wider than one foot exposed in trenches, outcrops, pits, and underground
workings in the Avon district. The pegmatite seems to be unevenly
distributed in the area. Individual bodies lie closely spaced in groups or in
a series separated by relatively broad tracts of metamorphic rock
containing few pegmatites. Stoll (1950) reported that the district included
about 18 mines and prospects that produced mica sheets in quantities
ranging from a few pounds to thousands of pounds. The last recorded
production, that Stoll was aware of, occurred from 1943 - 1945 when the
cost of shipping mica was assumed by the government. In addition to
mica, small quantities of beryl were also mined (Stoll, 1950).
There are numerous reports on the Avon district pegmatites (Sterrett,
1923; Anderson, 1933; Forrester, 1942; and Stoll, 1950); however,
modern research has not been done on either the pegmatites or the
underlying batholith.
POTATO HILL VOLCANICS
Potato Hill Volcanics consist of Early Tertiary-aged rhyolitic to dacitic
lava flows and flow-breccia. The best exposure occurs on Potato Hill
located approximately 0.5 mile north of Deary in east-central Latah
County. Very little published information on these rocks is available, and
good exposures of the sequence are rare.
The Potato Hill volcanic rocks rest on an erosion surface cut into granitic
rocks of the Idaho Batholith (Jones, 1982). These rocks are predominately
Cretaceous granodiorite and are known as the Thatuna Batholith (Bitten,
1951). The similarity between the granodiorite and intrusive clasts
contained in the flow-breccias is evidence for a post-Idaho Batholith age
for the Potato Hill volcanic rocks. Basalt of the Columbia River Basalt
Group overlies the Potato Hill volcanics all around the flanks of Potato
Hill. No clasts of Columbia River Basalt have been noted in the flow-
breccias.
The Potato Hill volcanics can be divided into a lower porphyritic member
and an upper flow-breccia member. The lack of exposures prohibits a
thickness estimate for the lower member, although Tullis (1944) estimated
it to be 200 to 300 feet thick. The upper flow-breccia member forms the
bulk of Potato Hill and has an estimated thickness of approximately 1000
feet (Bitten, 1951; Tullis, 1944).
The lower member consists of porphyritic lava flows which are
distinguished from the upper member by a general lack of lithic fragments,
common presence of flow-layering, and a general lighter color.
Compositionally the porphyritic flows were reported to be mainly rhyolite,
rhyodacite, and dacite (Bitten, 1951). The lava flows are typically
lavender or grayish-white but may be pinkish or brownish-gray. The flows
contain between 3% and 10% phenocrysts set in a dense aphanitic
groundmass. Locally the flows also contain 1% to 2% lithic fragments.
The phenocrysts are predominately 1 mm to 3 mm long milky-white
feldspars, with plagioclase being slightly more abundant than K-feldspars
(Bitten, 1951). Rounded, anhedral, quartz grains, ranging in size from
0.25 mm to 2.0 mm in diameter, make up the remaining phenocrysts.
Outcrops of the lower member weather dark red-brown and are locally
stained with iron-oxides, especially along the fractures. Orientation of the
fractures is highly variable, and Bitten (1951) described the flows as
sheeted masses. Where the flows crop out, flow layering can be
determined with close inspection. It can be distinguished by closely
spaced, alternating light and dark laminae or bands. These laminae are
generally 0.25 to 2.0 millimeters thick. The laminae are subparallel and
may be wavy. Individual laminae are observed to wrap around
phenocrysts and rare lithic fragments.
The upper member consists of an inhomogeneous sequence of dense, dark
flow-breccia with distinctive igneous and metamorphic clasts and
intercalated lithic-poor lava flows. The flow-breccia is generally matrix-
supported and contains variable proportions of angular to rounded clasts
of volcanic, intrusive, and metamorphic origin. The matrix is black or
brown-gray, devitrified glass and cryptocrystalline material (Bitten,
1951). Although the upper member is dark colored, Bitten (1951)
suggested that the phenocryst mineralogy indicates a dacitic to
rhyodacitic composition for the flow-breccia.
Hand specimens of this member contain between 5% and 20% lithic
fragments and 5% to 10% phenocrysts scattered throughout the matrix.
Phenocrysts in the matrix are difficult to distinguish from small lithic
fragments or other foreign inclusions. Translucent or white, anhedral to
subhedral feldspar phenocrysts are generally 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm in length.
The feldspar appears less altered than in the porphyritic flows.
Translucent plagioclase may have visible cleavage planes. Potassium
feldspar has a whitish color and appears to be slightly less abundant than
plagioclase. The anhedral clear crystals range from 0.50 mm to 1.0 mm in
diameter.
The lithic content of the flow-breccia varies from as high as 50% at an
exposure near Bovill, Idaho to 1% in some of the Potato Hill flows. The 1
cm to 10 cm size clasts are generally rounded and generally free of
fractures. The volcanic fragments are considered to be the most abundant,
followed by intrusive and metamorphic fragments. The volcanic fragments
are dark-gray to gray, porphyritic, and closely resemble the porphyritic
rocks of the lower member. The light colored intrusive fragments give the
flow-breccia a distinctive "polka dot" appearance. Bitten (1951) reported
that these fragments are mainly granodiorite. Metamorphic rock
fragments are less conspicuous than the intrusive fragments, are fine-
grained, and have a tan-orange color. It is possible they are clasts from
the Belt Supergroup.
The flow-breccia member is more resistant than the lower member and
forms rugged outcrops. Although the outcrops appear massive, flow-
layering is locally evident by crude alignment of lithic fragments or rare
gas cavities. It is common to note weathered-out horizons that recede
back into the outcrops. These horizons may represent flow contacts
which, if correct, may indicate that the individual flows ranged from 3
feet to 30 feet thick. No sedimentation or oxidation has been noted along
these contacts.
No conclusive evidence regarding the origin of the Potato Hill volcanic
rocks has been noted. The unconformable relation between the upper and
lower members suggests that the two members may not be related to the
same eruptive phase. Bitten (1951) suggested that the Potato Hill flows
were caused by relatively quiet eruptions from one or more fissures in the
Potato Hill vicinity. The lack of interbeds and oxidized flow contacts
would suggest that the flows were probably erupted in rapid succession.
The fact that the upper member dips to the west at Potato Hill and the
east at Cherry Butte makes it tempting to agree with Bitten (1951) that
the area is a vent. However, the eastward dipping rocks that make up
Cherry Butte can be explained by the presence of a northwest-trending
fault located in the Brush Creek drainage, which may be why the lower
member is present 500 feet higher on the Cherry Butte side.
A vent origin is also disputed by the absence of pyroclastic features and
by the nature of the lithic fragments in the flow-breccia. The rounded
fragments and weakly fractured nature of the clasts in the flow-breccia
suggest that they were passively incorporated into the flow. If Potato
Hill was a vent, pyroclastic features and more angular and fractured
clasts should be present. Until additional work is done on the Potato Hill
rocks, the conclusion is they represent two stages of post-Idaho Batholith
and pre-Columbia River Basalt eruptions that accumulated more than
1000 feet of rhyolite, dacite, and rhyodacite volcanism, and the upper
member (second stage) may represent numerous closely spaced events.
COLUMBIA RIVER BASALT GROUP
The Columbia River Basalt Group erupted from fissures during an 11-
million year period of the Miocene (6 million to 17 million years ago). The
bulk of the basalt was erupted in the first 1.5 million years (Baski, 1989)
over a 163,700 km2 area (Tolan and others, 1989) that included most of
eastern Washington, much of northern Oregon, and significant parts of
west-central Idaho. The accessibility of the Columbia River basalt in this
broad area makes it amenable to detailed stratigraphic, chemical,
magnetic, and petrographic studies.
Most flows of the Columbia River Basalt Group may be identified by
their chemical composition. New techniques of rapid chemical analysis
and magnetic polarity, in conjunction with field mapping, have enabled
scientists to establish a detailed stratigraphic succession for the Columbia
River Basalt Group. Based on the stratigraphy, it has been possible to
clarify the physical and chemical evolution of the basalt magma, to
correlate individual flows with their feeder dikes, and to reconstruct the
magnitude of the eruptions.
The maximum exposed thickness of the Columbia River Basalt Group is
1,500 meters, but basaltic rocks have been reported from drill cores as
deep as 3,000 meters near the center of the plateau (Hooper, 1982). The
total thickness of the basalt, based on estimates of the greatest known
thickness for each formation, is more than 2,500 meters. The Columbia
River Basalt Group fills a shallow basin; it is thickest at the center
(Pasco Basin) and thins toward the margin. The number of flows
identified on the plateau is between 120 and 150 (Hooper, 1982).
Individual flows are as much as 122 meters thick and average 15 to 30
meters thick. Their areal extent ranges from small spatter cones at source
vents to major flows that cover a significant part of the Columbia
Plateau with volumes as large as 700 cubic kilometers. The flows were
erupted from north-northwest to south-southeast fissures concentrated in
the southeastern part of the plateau where dikes cut through older lava
flows and the surrounding pre-basaltic rocks (Swanson and others, 1975).
From the base upward, the Columbia River Basalt Group in the Moscow-
Pullman-Lewiston area is subdivided into the Imnaha, Grande Ronde,
Wanapum, and Saddle Mountains Formations. Near Moscow, Idaho
most basalt outcrops are the Priest Rapids Member of the Wanapum
Formation. The contact between the Wanapum and underlying Grande
Ronde Formation has been mapped along Paradise Creek west of Pullman
(Hooper and Webster, 1982). This contact has also been identified by
Brown (1976) in a test well between Moscow and Pullman at a depth of
30 meters. All of the above mentioned formations are present in the
Lewiston-Clarkston area. Dike and vent materials are visible at numerous
locations in northern Idaho and southeastern Washington.
Basalt flows of the Grande Ronde, Wanapum, and Saddle Mountains
Formations range in thickness from less than 30 centimeters to more than
100 meters. The flows record ponding in valleys, in structurally controlled
basins that developed during volcanism, and in narrow canyons eroded
into older flows. The intracanyon flows are common in the Saddle
Mountains Basalt. All of the flows generally show evidence of ponding
based on the columnar-jointed features exhibited by basalt. Columnar
joints apparently form only under static cooling conditions.
Flows that cooled under static conditions contracted and developed a
characteristic jointing habit, which include colonnades and entablatures.
Colonnade refers to the larger columns that make up the base of the flow.
Entablatures are the smaller columns at the upper part of a flow and
generally constitute approximately 20% of the thickness of the flow, but
it can be all of the flow or none of it. Most entablature columns are
segmented by irregular cross joints, causing the columns to easily break
into smaller (fist sized) pieces. The colonnade-entablature contact may be
sharp, and the change generally occurs within 1 meter. These contacts are
traceable, in some areas, for several kilometers. The columns in the
colonnade range from 30 centimeters to 5 meters in diameter and are 15 to
30 feet in length. Most columns are straight, but curved ones are not
uncommon.
Individual Flows
Introduction:
The Columbia River Basalt Group has been subdivided into a large
number of flows, members, and formations. (Swanson and others, 1979).
The term "flow" is used for individual cooling units. The term "member" is
used to define a flow or group of flows that can be distinguished from all
others by its unique set of physical and chemical properties. These criteria
include stratigraphic position, petrographic assemblage, magnetic
properties, and chemical composition.
From the base upward, the Columbia River Basalt Group in the Moscow-
Pullman-Lewiston area is subdivided into the Imnaha, Grande Ronde,
Wanapum, and Saddle Mountains Formations. Brief descriptions of
these formations are given on the following pages. Particular emphasis is
given to the Grande Ronde and Wanapum Formations because they are
the predominate formations present in Latah County. For more
information regarding these formations and their associated members, see
Dr. John Bush at the University of Idaho.
Imnaha Basalt
The flows of the Imnaha Basalt conformably underlie the Grand Ronde
Basalt. Generally they are medium to coarse grained with phenocrysts of
plagioclase ranging in length from 0.5 cm to 2.5 cm. Exposures are
characterized by extensive weathering. Most flows have normal magnetic
polarity. Because these flows were the first to fill in the prebasalt
topography, they vary widely in thickness.
Grande Ronde Basalt
The Grande Ronde Basalt is a thick sequence of flows that occur over
much of the Columbia River Plateau. The flows are fine-grained and
petrographically obscure. Individual flow thickness ranges between 1 and
50 meters and covers hundreds of square kilometers. Total thickness
reaches over 1000 meters in some places. The member has been divided
into four units (Hooper and others, 1985) on the basis of magnetic
differences and has been dated between 15.6 m.y and 17.0 m.y. (Reidel
and others, 1989). From the base upward, these units are referred to as
N1, R1, N2, and R2. The Grande Ronde Basalt has a narrow range of
chemical composition and relatively uniform lithology. Reidel and others
(1989) used chemical compositions with paleomagnetic polarity, lithology,
and stratigraphic position to subdivide the formation. They were able to
split the four magnetostratigraphic units into seventeen informal units
that can be mapped and recognized across the Columbia Plateau.
Wanapum Formation
The Wanapum Formation consists primarily of the Priest Rapids Member
in Latah County. The Priest Rapids Member is a coarse-grained flow
with plagioclase (predominately labradorite) and olivine phenocrysts. The
member occurs as an extensive flow or as flows of relatively uniform
thickness over much of the plateau but is thicker in the Lewiston basin
than it is in the Moscow area (Hooper and others, 1985). Major feeder
dikes occur in northern Idaho (Camp, 1981). These dikes presumably fed
the flows, which moved westward into the central Columbia Plateau as
sheetfloods (Swanson and others, 1980). In the eastern part of the
plateau, this flow overlies a dark-brown, well-developed saprolite (clay-
rich decomposed rock). The flows have reversed magnetic polarity
(Swanson and others, 1979).
Saddle Mountains Formation
The Saddle Mountains Formation consists of numerous flows and
interbeds. The most common members of this formation in this area from
oldest to youngest are: (a) the Wilbur Creek Member; (b) the Pomona
Member; (c) the Elephant Member; and (d) the Lower Monumental
Member.
These members are the predominant flows of the ancestral Snake River
canyon in the Lewiston basin. Remnants of these flows extend from the
top of the Lewiston grade (Swanson and others,1975) to as far west as
Devils Canyon in southeastern Washington (Swanson and others, 1980).
In hand sample, the basalt is dark gray, fine to medium-grained, and
contains small phenocrysts or laths of plagioclase. Clinopyroxene and
olivine are also visible in an opaque, glassy matrix.

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