An authigenic mineral or sedimentary rock deposit is one that was generated where it is found or observed. Can be used to characterize metamorphic minerals formed in situ during metamorphism, or to characterize sedimentary minerals formed during sedimentation (ex: by precipitation or recrystallization) instead of being transported from elsewhere by water or wind. Authigenic sedimentation is one of main consituents of deep sea sedimentation.
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