Conglomerate
A sedimentary rock consisting of rounded clasts and sand cemented together by silica, lime, iron, or other minerals. When the clasts are angular, it is called Breccia. In Japan, it is known as "Komochi-ishi" (child-bearing stone) and is also affectionately called pudding stone.
The collective beauty of diverse clasts from various sources
Basic Information
| English Name | Conglomerate |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | Rekigan |
| Composition | Clasts: Quartz, lime, iron, etc. / Physical properties vary depending on matrix |
| Hardness | 4–7, depending on the matrix |
| Specific Gravity | Variable |
Types and Relations
- Polymict Conglomerate: Composed of multiple rock types (common).
- Monomict/Monogenetic Conglomerate: Rarely composed of a single type of stone or a uniform cementing material.
- Brecciated Stone: Angular fragments of agate or jasper (→ Agate / Jasper).
Similar to: Carbonatite breccia, impact breccia from meteorite strikes, etc.
Related: Tufa (sedimentary rock cemented by limestone clasts; the variety from Mt. Ibuki is said to be the model for the stones in the "Kimigayo" anthem) / Agglomerate (volcanic conglomerate) / Breon (jasper with brecciated structure).
Related Stones: Volcanic-origin Rhyolite and Sandstone Tuff are also used for display purposes.