Neomorphism and recrystallization

Recrystallization and neomorphism are processes that transform minerals in situ into different forms of themselves, or a polymorph. Confusion exists with the term recrystallization because it is sometimes restricted to strain induced transformation (Bathurst, 1958) but at other times it is used in a general way for any change in form without a change of mineral species. The term replacement is sometimes used for any mineral transformation, including recrystallization and neomorphism. Replacement, however, is often restricted to transformations that involve changes in bulk composition (synonymous with metasomatism) such as dolomitization or silicification of limestone. Neomorphism and recrystallization are thought to occur by simultaneous transformation across a thin fluid film and are to be distinguished from cementation (mineral crystallization in fluid filled cavities). Neomorphism, recrystallization and cementation all involve dissolution and precipitation, but cement crystallizes in visible (scale of light microscope) cavities and does not involve simultaneous dissolution and precipitation at sites separated by a few microns or less. …