Type locality (geology)


A type locality, or a type area, in geology is the locality where a particular rock type, stratigraphic unit or mineral species is first identified. If the stratigraphic unit in a locality is layered, it is called a stratotype, whereas the standard of reference for unlayered rocks is the type locality.
The concept is similar to type site in archaeology.

Examples of geological type localities

Rocks and minerals

Formations