Metamorphic Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Metamorphic Rocks

Quick Answer: A set of 15 labelled metamorphic rock specimens used to teach how heat and pressure transform existing rock into new rock types, and how that transformation produces the banded (foliated) or non-banded (non-foliated) textures used to classify them.

The Metamorphic Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Metamorphic Rocks covers the third major rock type in the rock cycle. Metamorphic rocks begin as an existing rock — igneous, sedimentary, or even another metamorphic rock — called the protolith, which is then transformed by heat, pressure, or both, without fully melting. The minerals within the rock recrystallise and often realign, producing distinctive new textures.

A key classification concept is foliation: rocks subjected to directed pressure often develop banded or layered textures, ranging from the fine, flat splitting of slate through phyllite and schist to the coarse, distinct banding of gneiss. Other metamorphic rocks are non-foliated, showing no such banding — marble (from limestone) and quartzite (from sandstone) are classic examples where the parent rock’s minerals recrystallise without developing a directional texture.

This 15-specimen set gives students a range of both foliated and non-foliated examples to compare, completing the rock cycle picture alongside igneous and sedimentary rock sets.

This metamorphic rock set completes LabEquip’s rock cycle teaching materials alongside the Igneous Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Igneous Rocks and the Sedimentary Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Sedimentary Rocks, all part of our full Educational Rock and Minerals range.

What is included in the Metamorphic Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Metamorphic Rocks?
The set contains 15 individually labelled metamorphic rock specimens showing a range of foliated and non-foliated textures, supplied in a compartmented tray.

What makes a rock metamorphic?
Metamorphic rocks form when an existing rock (the protolith) is transformed by heat, pressure, or both, causing its minerals to recrystallise, often without the rock fully melting.

What is the difference between foliated and non-foliated metamorphic rocks?
Foliated rocks, such as slate, schist or gneiss, develop banded or layered textures from directed pressure. Non-foliated rocks, such as marble or quartzite, recrystallise without developing that directional banding.

What subjects or grade levels is this set suited for?
It is designed for secondary school earth science and introductory geology classes covering the rock cycle and rock transformation processes.

How should the metamorphic rock specimens be stored?
Keep them in their labelled tray slots, store away from moisture, and handle foliated specimens gently since they can split along their banding.

Does LabEquip offer the other rock types to complete the rock cycle?
Yes. The Igneous Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Igneous Rocks and the Sedimentary Rocks Set, Collection of 15 Sedimentary Rocks complete the full rock cycle alongside this set.