A two-dimensional stochastic seismic model of the crustal cross section
exposed in the Strona-Ceneri and Ivrea zones, northern Italy, was
derived from geologic maps and petrophysical data with techniques
used in microfabric analysis. The model has a layered self-affine
structure, which agrees with the intrinsic scale independence of
geologic phenomena. Synthetic seismograms from this model replicate
many pertinent features observed in deep seismic reflection data
and allow insight into crustal structure: (1) reflectivity depends
on the lithological populations present and their distribution within
a crustal unit; (2) transparent zones within the reflective lower
crust can arise from metamorphic reactions; (3) the transition from
upper to lower crust may be a change in small-scale seismic fabric
rather than a first-order seismic discontinuity.