noun
- A hard, fine-grained sedimentary rock composed of microcrystalline quartz, often found in layers and used historically for making tools and starting fires.
Usage: geology; archaeology
Examples
- Archaeologists discovered chert tools at the ancient settlement.
- The cliff face exposed layers of chert and limestone.
- Early humans valued chert for its ability to produce sharp edges when struck.
- Chert nodules were commonly used to create arrowheads and scrapers.
- The geologist identified the rock sample as chert based on its hardness and appearance.