BGS Rock Classification Scheme
Limestone - In the Rock Classification Scheme, these are carbonate sedimentary rocks in which the dominant carbonate mineral is calcium carbonate in the form of calcite, aragonite and/or vaterite (vaterite is a metastable hexagonal form of calcium carbonate. It is exceptionally rare and it is unlikely that it would ever occur as the main mineral). Two classification schemes are available to give root names to limestones: the first scheme is based on texture; the second scheme is designed to classify limestones composed dominantly of one constituent. Textural classification includes use of depositional (i.e. matrix-supported versus grain-supported), biogenic, and diagenetic textures. British Geological Survey Research Report RR/99/03, section 3.1 and fig. 6.
| Code | LMST |
|---|---|
| Description | Limestone - In the Rock Classification Scheme, these are carbonate sedimentary rocks in which the dominant carbonate mineral is calcium carbonate in the form of calcite, aragonite and/or vaterite (vaterite is a metastable hexagonal form of calcium carbonate. It is exceptionally rare and it is unlikely that it would ever occur as the main mineral). Two classification schemes are available to give root names to limestones: the first scheme is based on texture; the second scheme is designed to classify limestones composed dominantly of one constituent. Textural classification includes use of depositional (i.e. matrix-supported versus grain-supported), biogenic, and diagenetic textures. British Geological Survey Research Report RR/99/03, section 3.1 and fig. 6. |
| Qualifiers | No qualifiers currently exist. |
| Definition | Sedimentary rock with components >50% calcite/aragonite. Component size not defined. |
| Linked data | http://data.bgs.ac.uk/id/EarthMaterialClass/RockName/LMST |
CAVEAT
"Thumbnail" definitions attached to some of the table entries are an interim attempt to provide simple short descriptions of the "unqualified" rock types presented within the BGS Rock Classification Scheme. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and consistency but minor contradictions or omissions might be present. The BGS welcomes any feedback pointing out such minor imperfections and/or providing constructive comment and suggestions for improvement of the definitions. In the first instance such feedback should be directed to Dr Tim McCormick.