What is "neomorphism"

Neomorphism refers to the wet metamorphic process in which diagenetic alterations systematically transform minerals into either polymorphs or crystalline structures that are structurally identical to the rock(s) from which they developed.

Coined by the late Robert L. Folk, neomorphism encompasses the functions of both recrystallization and inversion, which are geological processes that deal primarily with rock reformation. The neomorphic process, as it relates to geology and petrography, is one of the many major processes that sustain both carbonate minerals and limestone. Neomorphism is largely held accountable for the metastability of aragonite and magnesium-rich calcite, and when conditions permit, neomorphic reactions and interactions can result in texture loss and/or feature deformation of affected rock formations.