kvartsivääteisiin
Kvartsivääteisiin, also known as quartzite, is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of quartz. It forms when sandstone, a sedimentary rock rich in quartz grains, is subjected to heat and pressure. This process causes the quartz grains to recrystallize and interlock, forming a very dense and durable rock. Pure quartzite is white or light-colored, but impurities in the original sandstone can lead to various colors, including pink, red, gray, blue, and yellow. The texture of quartzite can range from fine-grained to coarse-grained, depending on the original sandstone. It is significantly harder than sandstone and is resistant to weathering and erosion. This makes it a valuable material for construction, particularly for building facades, flooring, and countertops, as well as for decorative purposes and sculptures. Its hardness and resistance to chemical weathering also make it suitable for use in industrial applications. The formation of quartzite typically occurs deep within the Earth's crust where tectonic plate collisions create the necessary conditions for metamorphism. Due to its durability, quartzite can also be found in ancient rock formations.