Structure (layering and brecciation)

Abstract

It is particularly important to carefully observe and document the broad-scale textural features of leached exposures. Unfortunately this vital stage is commonly neglected in the haste to collect specimens for chemical analysis or microscopic examination. Th ere is also a tendency to dismiss rusty or soft clay exposures as a textureless mess. Th is is only partially true, and in many cases features which are still present include, well developed layering, brecciation, irregular distribution of limonite types, and a simple description of the size and shape can be of great value.