Gabbro Slide

Gabbro thin section exhibiting some of the textbook features one would expect from this coarse, mafic igneous rock. The rock is comprised predominately of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene ( clinopyroxene ) however minor amounts of amphibole and olivine may be present. The feldspar frequently exhibits simple and cross-hatched twinning, suitable for those keen to strengthen their mineral identification skills. These slides supplement the hand specimens nicely and are useful for interpreting the crystallisation history of the rock. This particular example comes from the Balmedie quarry near Aberdeen, Scotland. The section is made to 30 microns thickness and the glass is 46 x 27 mm in size with a cover slip. Supplied in a protective card sleeve with a label, ideal for microscopy.