Composition Kimberlites are classified as ultramafic rocks due to their high magnesium oxide (MgO) content, which typically exceeds 12%, and often surpasses 15%. This high MgO concentration indicates a mantle-derived origin, rich in olivine and other magnesium-dominant minerals. Additionally, kimberlites are ultrapotassic, with a molar ratio of potassium oxide (K2O) to aluminum oxide (Al2O3) greater than 3, suggesting significant alterations or enrichment processes in their mantle source regions.
Composition Kimberlites are classified a,s ultramafic rocks due to their high magnesium oxide (MgO) content, which typically exceeds 12%, and often surpasses 15%. This high MgO concentration indicates a mantle-derived origin, rich in olivine and other magnesium-dominant minerals. Additionally, kimberlites are ultrapotassic with a molar ratio of potassium oxide (K2O) to aluminum oxide (Al2O3) greater than 3, suggesting significant alterations or enrichment processes in their mantle source regions.