Geologic Maps

• What is the largest map you can fabricate?  There is no limit to the size of a map we can build.  There are practical limits that will impact shipping and installation, but we work closely with our customers on these special requirements.

• What type of 3D maps can you fabricate?  All types.  Satellite Maps, Terrain Maps, Topographical Maps, Raised Relief Maps, USGS Maps, Contour Maps, and many more.

• Can you fabricate with different technologies and materials? Yes.  Our most common fabrication technology is 3D Printing, but we can also build 3D Maps with CNC Cutting, 3D Foam, Molding/Casting, Thermoforming, and Sculpting.

• What materials can you 3D print in?  We match the correct material and fabrication process to your requirements in terms of presentation, size, and transportability.  We can 3D print in PLA, FDM, Full-Color Sandstone, UV-cured resin, plastic, rubber-like, acrylic, and nylon – as well as combining multiple technologies.

• Can you sign a Non-disclosure Agreement that you supply?  Yes.

• How long will it take to create my map?  That depends on the design and size of the map.  A more complex or detailed map will take longer than a simple map, we can’t really say exactly how long it will take until we have the chance to understand what type of map you want fabricated.  Generally, smaller standard maps can be a couple of weeks and large museum exhibition maps can be 6 months.

• What do you need from me to start the map fabrication?  Boundaries are a good place to start.  Determining map styles, sizes, height (may be exaggerated), and cabinetry needs are all part of the process.  Special design features can also be added.

• What is a geologic map?  A geologic map is a type of map that displays information about the geological features and formations present in a particular area.  Geologic maps use a variety of symbols, colors, and other graphical elements to represent different types of rocks, minerals, and other geological features.  These maps are typically used by geologists, scientists, and other researchers to better understand the geological history and composition of a particular area.  They can also be used for a variety of practical purposes, such as identifying potential mineral resources, studying the movement of groundwater, and assessing potential natural hazards.

• What is on a geologic map?  A geologic map typically displays information about the different types of rocks, minerals, and other geological features present in a particular area.  These maps use a variety of symbols, colors, and other graphical elements to represent different geological features.  For example, different colors may be used to represent different types of rocks or geologic formations, while symbols may be used to represent the presence of faults, folds, or other geological features.  In addition to these graphical elements, geologic maps may also include annotations or other notes to provide additional information about the area being studied.

• How do I read a geologic map?  Reading a geologic map can be intimidating for those who are not familiar with the symbols and conventions used in geology.  However, with a bit of practice, it is possible to learn how to read and interpret these maps.  Here are some basic steps to help you get started:
  • Understand the map key:  The map key, also known as a legend, is the most important part of a geologic map. It explains the symbols, colors, and other graphical elements used on the map.  Take the time to familiarize yourself with the key before you begin.
  • Look for the rock formations:  Different types of rocks are usually represented by different colors or patterns on a geologic map.  Use the key to identify the different rock formations present in the area.
  • Look for faults and folds:  Faults and folds are represented by different symbols on a geologic map. These features are important because they can affect the movement of water and other resources in the area.
  • Pay attention to contour lines:  Contour lines are used to show the elevation of the land.  By understanding the contours, you can get a better sense of the topography of the area.
  • Consider the age of the rock formations:  The age of the rock formations can be an important factor in understanding the geological history of the area.  Geologic maps often include information about the relative ages of the different rock formations present.
  • By following these steps and taking the time to study the key, you can learn to read and interpret geologic maps with greater confidence and accuracy. With practice, you can develop a deeper understanding of the geological features and history of the area being studied.

• What types of geologic maps are available?  There are several types of geologic maps available, each with their own unique characteristics and uses.  Some of the most common types of geologic maps include:
  • Bedrock geologic maps:  These maps display the distribution of bedrock formations, which are the solid rock layers that make up the Earth’s crust.  Bedrock geologic maps are often used for mineral exploration, as well as for understanding the geological history of an area.
  • Surficial geologic maps:  These maps display the distribution of surficial materials, such as soil, sand, and gravel.  Surficial geologic maps are often used for engineering and land-use planning purposes, as well as for studying the movement of groundwater.
  • Geologic hazard maps:  These maps display information about geologic hazards, such as earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic activity.  Geologic hazard maps are used for emergency planning and preparedness, as well as for assessing the risk of natural disasters.
  • Structural geologic maps: These maps display information about the orientation and arrangement of rock layers, faults, and folds.  Structural geologic maps are often used for mining and oil exploration, as well as for understanding the tectonic history of an area.
  • Geologic maps of specific features:  These maps display information about specific geologic features, such as caves, karst landscapes, and hot springs. These maps are often used for recreational purposes, as well as for scientific research.

• What is the difference between geologic maps and topographic maps?  Geologic maps and topographic maps are two different types of maps that serve different purposes.  Here are the main differences between the two:
  • Content:  Geologic maps display information about the geological features and formations present in an area, such as rock types, faults, and folds.  Topographic maps, on the other hand, display information about the physical features of the land, such as elevation, contour lines, and bodies of water.
  • Purpose:  Geologic maps are used by geologists and other researchers to better understand the geological history and composition of the Earth’s surface, as well as for practical purposes such as mineral exploration and engineering.  Topographic maps, on the other hand, are used for navigation, land-use planning, and other purposes that require knowledge of the physical features of the land.
  • Scale:  Geologic maps are typically drawn at a larger scale than topographic maps. This is because geologic maps need to display more detail about the specific geological features present in an area. Topographic maps, on the other hand, are drawn at a smaller scale to show a broader view of the land.
  • Symbols:  Geologic maps use symbols and colors to represent different geological features, such as rock types and faults.  Topographic maps, on the other hand, use contour lines and shading to represent elevation and other physical features.

• What are the 4 geologic areas?  There are four main geologic areas, also known as provinces, that make up the Earth’s surface.  These provinces are based on differences in geological history, processes, and rock types.  Here are the four geologic areas:
  • Craton:  The craton is the stable interior of a continent that has not undergone significant tectonic activity for a long period of time. It is made up of ancient rocks that are highly metamorphosed and deformed.  The craton is the oldest and most stable part of the Earth’s crust.
  • Orogen:  The orogen is an area of the Earth’s crust where tectonic plates have collided and created mountain ranges.  These areas are characterized by highly deformed rocks, intense metamorphism, and significant volcanic activity.
  • Platform:  The platform is a flat or gently sloping region of the Earth’s crust that is covered by sedimentary rocks.  These areas are often found on the edges of continents and are formed by the accumulation of sediment over time.
  • Fold-Thrust Belt:  The fold-thrust belt is an area of the Earth’s crust where two tectonic plates have collided and one has been pushed over the other.  This creates a series of folds and thrust faults in the rocks, and can result in the formation of mountains.

• How are geologic maps made?  Geologic maps are created using a combination of field observations, laboratory analysis, and mapping techniques.  Here is a general overview of the process of making a geologic map:
  • Fieldwork:  Geologists begin by conducting fieldwork to observe the geological features and formations in the area of interest.  They take notes on the rock types, structures, and other features they observe, and record their observations on a field map.
  • Laboratory analysis:  Geologists may also collect samples of rocks, minerals, or fossils from the area for laboratory analysis.  This can help them determine the chemical composition, age, and other properties of the rocks.
  • Data integration:  The field observations and laboratory data are then integrated into a geologic map. Geologists use symbols and colors to represent different rock types, structures, and other geological features on the map.
  • Compilation and interpretation:  Once the data is integrated into the map, geologists compile and interpret the data to better understand the geological history of the area.  They may use cross-sections, stratigraphic columns, and other techniques to visualize the geology in three dimensions.
  • Refinement:  The geologic map is refined and revised based on new data and observations as they become available.
  • Modern geologic maps are often created using digital mapping tools and geographic information systems (GIS) software.  These tools allow geologists to create detailed maps that can be easily updated and shared with others.
  • What three things are shown on most geologic maps?  Most geologic maps show three main things: rock units, structural features, and geologic age.
  • Rock units are different types of rock formations that can be distinguished from each other based on their physical characteristics, such as color, texture, and composition.  On a geologic map, rock units are typically represented by different colors, patterns, or symbols.
  • Structural features refer to the various ways in which rocks can be deformed, such as folding, faulting, and tilting.  These features are important because they can provide information about the forces that have acted on the rocks over time.  Structural features are often shown on geologic maps using lines or symbols that indicate the orientation and type of deformation.
  • Geologic age is an important aspect of geologic maps, as it provides information about the relative timing of events in the Earth’s history.  Age is usually indicated on a geologic map using a stratigraphic column, which shows the various rock units in order of their relative ages, with the oldest rocks at the bottom and the youngest rocks at the top.

• What are the 6 geological structures?  There are six main types of geological structures:
  • Folds:  Folds are the result of the bending or buckling of rock layers due to compression forces.  They are commonly found in regions where tectonic plates are colliding, such as mountain ranges.
  • Faults:  Faults occur when rock layers are broken and displaced along a fracture or fault plane.  They are often associated with earthquakes and can create distinctive landscapes, such as fault scarps and rift valleys.
  • Joints:  Joints are fractures in rock that do not involve any displacement.  They are commonly found in areas where rocks have been subjected to stress, such as in mountain ranges or along coastlines.
  • Domes:  Domes are circular or elliptical structures in which rock layers have been uplifted and arched upwards.  They are often associated with volcanic activity and can be found in areas with hotspots or mantle plumes.
  • Basins:  Basins are large, low-lying areas where rock layers have been depressed or subsided.  They are often associated with sedimentary deposits and can contain important oil and gas reserves.
  • Igneous intrusions:  Igneous intrusions occur when magma or molten rock is forced into existing rock layers and solidifies.  They can create distinctive features, such as dikes, sills, and batholiths.

• What is an example geologic area?  One example of a geologic area is the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA.  The Grand Canyon is a large, steep-sided gorge carved by the Colorado River, and it exposes nearly two billion years of Earth’s geological history.  The rocks and formations found in the Grand Canyon are a testament to the complex geological processes that have shaped the region over millions of years, including uplift, erosion, and sedimentation.

• How do I draw a geologic map?  Drawing a geologic map is a complex and technical process that requires specialized knowledge and training.  However, the basic steps involved in creating a geologic map are as follows:
  • Gather data:  The first step in drawing a geologic map is to gather data about the area of interest.  This typically involves conducting fieldwork to observe the rock formations and other geological features, as well as collecting rock samples for analysis.
  • Analyze the data:  Once the data has been collected, it must be analyzed to identify the different rock types and geological structures present in the area.  This may involve using specialized equipment, such as microscopes or geophysical instruments.
  • Create a base map:  Before creating the geologic map, a base map must be created that shows the topography and other physical features of the area.  This can be done using satellite imagery, aerial photographs, or topographic maps.
  • Draw the geologic units:  Using the data and analysis gathered in steps 1 and 2, the geologic units can be identified and represented on the base map.  Each unit is typically given a unique color or pattern to make it easily distinguishable from other units.
  • Add symbols and annotations:  To make the geologic map more informative, various symbols and annotations can be added to indicate the location of faults, folds, and other geological structures, as well as the age and type of rock formations.
  • Finalize the map:  Once the geologic map has been drawn, it should be reviewed and checked for accuracy.  Any errors or inconsistencies should be corrected, and the final map should be produced in a format suitable for printing or publication.
  • Overall, drawing a geologic map is a complex and time-consuming process that requires a thorough understanding of geology, cartography, and data analysis.  It is typically carried out by trained geologists or cartographers using specialized software and tools.

• How does a geologic map work?  A geologic map works by providing a visual representation of the geology of a specific area, including the location and types of rock formations, geological structures, and other features.  This information is used by geologists, engineers, and other professionals to better understand the geological history of the area and to plan and design projects such as mining operations, construction projects, and environmental remediation efforts.
  • Geologic maps typically use a combination of colors, patterns, symbols, and annotations to convey information about the geology of an area.  Different rock formations are typically assigned distinct colors or patterns, while symbols and annotations are used to indicate the presence of faults, folds, and other geological structures.  The age and composition of the rock formations may also be indicated on the map.
  • To use a geologic map, one typically starts by identifying the specific area of interest on the map. This may involve zooming in on a specific location or using a reference point such as a city or landmark to orient oneself.  Once the area of interest has been identified, one can begin to analyze the geologic information provided on the map to better understand the geological features and history of the area.
  • For example, a geologist studying a particular area might use a geologic map to identify the location of different types of rock formations, such as sandstone or shale.  They might also use the map to identify the location of faults or other geological structures that could impact the stability of the ground or the availability of natural resources. This information can then be used to make informed decisions about geological hazards, resource extraction, or construction projects.

• How are colors chosen for a geologic map?  Geologic maps use a variety of colors to represent different types of geological features.  The colors chosen for these maps are typically based on the rock types and geological structures that are present in the area being mapped.  For example, red is often used to represent areas of volcanic rock, while shades of green and gray may be used to represent sedimentary rocks.  Blues and purples may be used to indicate areas of metamorphic rocks, and shades of brown and yellow are often used for areas of sandstone and limestone.   The specific colors chosen for a geologic map will depend on the location being mapped, as well as the preferences of the cartographer creating the map. It is important to note that the colors used on a geologic map are not arbitrary, but are carefully selected to accurately represent the geology of the area being mapped.

Do you have a question we didn’t answer? Don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-385-206-8700 or [email protected].