A comment by J. Wright Horton, Jr. about
The British Geological Survey (BGS) has just released (1999) a standard rock classification scheme in four volumes: Vol. 1. Igneous Rocks (56 pages) Vol. 2. Metamorphic Rocks (26 pages) Vol. 3. Sediments and Sedimentary Rocks (46 pages) Vol. 4. "Superficial" Deposits (66 pages) The classification appears to be scientifically sound, up-to-date (1999), remarkably comprehensive, and well integrated considering the diversity of subjects. It is designed for computer databases and includes descriptive and interpretive modifiers as well as rock names. Sources include some widely used North American references, and the scheme is generally consistent with common North American usage, except for British variations in the use of terms (such as "superficial") and spelling (such as "aeolian). My guess is that vols. 1-3 would be acceptable to most North American geologists with minor quibbles, and that vol. 4 might generate more debate. All four volumes are available for free viewing and download in .pdf or .html formats at: http://www.bgs.ac.uk/rcs/home.html http://www.bgs.ac.uk/rcs/details.html Is the BGS Rock Classification Scheme or any of its components suitable as a "straw man" for consideration, and possible adoption with modifications, by the North American Science Language Technical Team (SLTT)?
Further discussion of BGS Rock Classification Scheme (this page):