STYLOLITES: MEASUREMENT OF ROCK LOSS

Abstract

Stylolites are defined and their general characteristics summarized. A brief historical sketch of their origin is presented with emphasis on the three existing theories accepted by several authors. Microscopic, petrographic observations result in estimating calcareous rock loss by solution through the measurement of insoluble detrital residue that is concentrated within the stylolitic seams. Comparing these microscopic observations with Stockdale's figures, obtained by macroscopic measurements, it is concluded, like Stockdale, that some horizons may have been thinned as much as 40 to 50 per cent of their original thickness.