Geothermobarometry

Geothermobarometry is the methodology for estimating the pressure and temperature history of rocks (metamorphic, igneous or sedimentary). Geothermobarometry is a combination of geobarometry, where the pressure attained (and retained) by a mineral assemblage is estimated, and geothermometry where the temperature attained (and retained) by a mineral assemblage is estimated.

An illustration of geothermobarometry. A line of temperature equilibrium (orange) and a line of pressure equilibrium (blue) of selected mineral assemblages found in the specimen are plotted on the P-T diagram. The intersection represents the likely P-T condition experienced by rock in its metamorphic history.