Deposits containing dolomite and siderite also readily yield amphibolite (tremolite-schist, grunerite-schist, and others) especially where there has been a certain amount of contact metamorphism by adjacent granitic masses.

Although tremolite is a metamorphic amphibole, it is most commonly derived from highly metamorphosed ultramafic rocks, and thus tremolite-talc schist is not generally considered a variety of amphibolite.

Para-amphibolite will generally have the same equilibrium mineral assemblage as ortho-amphibolite, with more biotite, and may include more quartz, plagioclase, and depending on the protolith, more calcite/aragonite and wollastonite.

This term is recommended by the British Geological Survey when it is possible to determine the origin of the rock from its characteristics alone (and not from field relationships), particularly when the degree of metamorphism is low.

For instance, actinolite amphibole is a common product of retrograde metamorphism of metabasalt at (upper) greenschist facies conditions.

The archaic term epidiorite is sometimes used, especially in Europe, to refer to a metamorphosed ortho-amphibolite with a protolith of diorite, gabbro or other mafic intrusive rock.

Amphibolite was a favourite material for the production of adzes (shoe-last-celts) in the central European early Neolithic (Linearbandkeramic and Rössen cultures).

[citation needed] Amphibolite is a common dimension stone used in construction, paving, facing of buildings, especially because of its attractive textures, dark color, hardness and polishability and its ready availability.