Lähikihides

Lähikihides refers to a geological phenomenon involving microscopic crystalline structures found within certain rocks. These structures are characterized by their small size and their specific arrangement, often exhibiting a degree of order at a very fine scale. The term "lähikihides" is derived from Finnish, where "lähi" means near or close and "kihides" relates to crystals or crystalline structures. Therefore, it implies a proximity or a fine-grained nature of these crystalline formations.

The study of lähikihides is primarily an area of mineralogy and petrology. Understanding their formation requires examining the geological conditions under which the parent rock solidified or underwent metamorphism. Factors such as temperature, pressure, and the chemical composition of the surrounding environment play crucial roles in determining the size, shape, and orientation of these micro-crystals.

Lähikihides can influence the physical properties of rocks, including their strength, color, and how they interact with light. In some cases, their presence can be an indicator of specific geological processes that have occurred over long periods. While not a widely recognized term in international geological literature, it represents a specific descriptive classification within Finnish geological discourse, highlighting the importance of fine-scale textural analysis in understanding rock composition and history. Research into lähikihides contributes to a more detailed understanding of rock microstructures and their implications for geological interpretation.