Greywacke slate

Graywacke shale is a rock used in both mineralogical and geological terminology. It is a fine-grained type of sandstone composed of quartz, sand and mica. The term "graywacke shale" was first used in 1787 to refer to rocks that in their mica-bearing, fine-grained varieties are called graywacke shale or graywacke sandstone. These rocks resemble sandstones but are distinguishable from them because of their content of quartz, quartzite, siliceous shale, and argillaceous shale [1External link].

Graywacke shale is characterized by its gray color, which comes from the minerals and sediments it contains. The rock layers often show a strongly folded structure, which indicates tectonic activities in the geological past. Due to its hardness and strength, graywacke slate is often used for various construction and decorative purposes. It is also a popular material for flooring, wall cladding and stair treads.

In geological history, graywacke slate played an important role. Due to its formation in shallow marine areas where sediments were deposited and later solidified under high pressure and temperature, graywacke slate often contains fossils and traces of past life. By studying these fossils, geologists can gain information about past ecosystems and environmental conditions.

The use of graywacke shale is not limited to Germany. This rock is found worldwide and occurs in various geological formations. In some regions, graywacke shale is also used as a building material for road construction and as fill material. It is a versatile rock that can be used in various applications due to its hardness and durability.

Overall, graywacke shale is an interesting rock with a variety of uses. Its fine-grained structure, gray color, and geological history make it a fascinating material in the world of geology and construction.

Location of the graywacke slate near the village Goldisthal

Image: Thomas Voigt