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How to Identify North Georgia Rocks

Georgia is a highly diverse state in terms of the geology and the types of rocks found there. There are four distinct regions of the state classified by geologists. The rocks discussed in this article are to be found mostly within the Valley and Ridge and Blue Ridge geological regions -- the two most northern areas. Rock collectors and amateur petrologists may be interested in the types of rocks found in the northern portions of the state, due to the mountainous landscapes and valleys located there.

Things You'll Need

Guidebook on types of rocks found in the South
A pouch or bag to carry rocks for collection

Instructions

Identifying Rocks in North Georgia
- 1
  Study the typography and terrain of North Georgia. This will help any rock hunter understand why various types of rocks are located in this area of the state. All of the highest points of Georgia are located in the northeastern part of the state. The North Georgia mountains make up a section of the Blue Ridge mountain chain that includes Black Rock Mountain, the highest peak in the state. The northwestern region of the state is comprised of the Valley and Ridge geologic area, and many different types of rocks are found there.
- 2
  
  Volcanic rocks such as this one are found in the northeastern part of Georgia.
  
  Become knowledgeable about the types of rocks found in the Blue Ridge section. Like many other mountain ranges on the East Coast, there are large quantities of metamorphic rocks. There also are igneous rocks, such as metagranite and Gneiss, and various mafic rocks. In addition, there are various resources of marble and talc located within this region.
  
  A substantial portion of gold was discovered in Dahlonega in the early 1800s, and a mine, and later a small mint, were established for a period of about 30 years.
- 3
  Study the rich resources of rocks found in the Valley and Ridge geologic area. This area is located in the northeastern part of the state, and consists of Paleozoic sedimentary rocks, as well as dolostone and limestone. The town of Cartersville has been found to contain barite and ochre, the latter of which normally has a golden-yellow or yellow-brown color. Several notable varieties of marble are found with the Valley and Ridge area, including blue- or black-veined Creole marble, which is located in Pickens County. Etowah marble, which appears salmon or pink in color, is mined from quarries in nearby Tate, Georgia.

Rocks & Minerals