ironstone

views updated May 08 2018

ironstone Iron-rich sedimentary rock. The source of the iron is primary and/or diagenetic (see DIAGENESIS), developed by a number of possible processes. These include: (a) replacement of carbonate particles by hematite, siderite, or chamosite; (b) diagenetic development of nodules, and more continuous horizons, of siderite within claystone sequences; (c) primary deposition of ooids from Fe/Alrich gels, and subsequent conversion to chamosite during shallow burial. See PLINTHITE. See also MINETTE; and CLINTON IRONSTONE.

ironstone

views updated May 17 2018

i·ron·stone / ˈīərnˌstōn/ • n. 1. sedimentary rock containing a substantial proportion of iron compounds.2. [usu. as adj.] a kind of dense, opaque stoneware.

ironstone

views updated May 14 2018

ironstone. Stone containing iron-ore, which influences colour (e.g. brown, brownish-red, etc.).