Exploration methods for granitic natural stones - Geological and topographical aspects from case studies in Finland

Regional and local geological constraints for location of natural stone deposits in glaciated terrains of southern and central Finland have been studied and applied to practical exploration for natural stone. A list of geological and topographical aspects to be considered in exploration, is presented. Important aspects refer to: 1. Regional geology of the target area. 2. Magmatism (type and structure of intrusion, relative time of pluton emplacement). 3. Metamorphism (grade, mineral composition, parent material). 4. Deformation (lineaments, shear zones, folding, fault zones, fracture zones, shape preferred mineral orientations), and 5. Topography (relative elevation, micro topography). The proposed aspects can be used as geological guidelines in exploration for granitic natural stones