metamorphism

   Metamorphism (geologically speaking, anyway) is a process by which rocks become changed by heat and pressure from one form to another.  Metamorphic rocks have different textures, ranging from slate (like old-fashioned blackboards) to gneiss (a rock which looks like "marble" ice cream or cake, with swirls of minerals throughout).
   A common metamorphic rock in the Phoenix area is schist, which has a texture midway between the above examples.  It splits along wavy, uneven planes, and has a glistening look in the sunshine.
   Another common rock metamorphic rock in the area is quartzite, which is sandstone that has been baked and hardened more by heat and pressure.  It looks somewhat like sandstone, but has a little more "shine".

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