Abstract

Various igneous and metamorphic rocks constitute the basement complex especially much of southwestern Nigeria. They are composed of different proportion of felsic to mafic constitutions. Textural characteristics are also wide ranging. Based on petrographic and physical parameters, the majority holds good promise to be utilized for polished items. However, industrial exploitation may be constrained by a number of features, in some cases. On the other hand, sustaining viable projects in ornament stones, would demand support for further geological appraisals, technical facilities, adequate capital and relevant manpower.

Key words: Mining of rocks, porosity, environmental degradation, specific gravity.