The Geology of Virginia

A Resource for Information on the Commonwealth's Geology

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Micrograph of Deformed Quartz Sandstone

This micrograph colorfully illustrates deformed quartz grains in a well-cemented quartz sandstone from the Cambrian Antietam Formation, a prominent geologic unit in the Blue Ridge geologic province.  Many of the individual sand grains are elongated (~horizontal orientation), but not recrystallized.  Photo taken in cross polarized light with the gypsum plate inserted.

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What’s New in Virginia Geology

VAlavas

Virginia is for Lavas- The Catoctin Formation

Many of the highest peaks in Shenandoah National Park (including Hawksbill, Stony Man, and Hightop Mountain, just to name a few) are underlain by distinctive bluish-green rocks that were once ancient lava flows (Virginia is for Lavas!), and are part of a geologic unit known as the Catoctin Formation.  From the presidential retreat at Camp David to Jefferson’s […]

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