Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

chert

noun

/tʃɜːrt/

Definition

Chert is a hard, sedimentary rock composed mainly of microcrystalline or cryptocrystalline silica. It is often found in a variety of colors, including gray, brown, and red.

Examples

The ancient people used chert to create sharp tools and weapons.
Chert can often be found near limestone deposits.
In geology, chert is studied to understand the past environments of sedimentary rock formations.

Meaning

Chert is primarily made up of silica and is known for its use in the production of tools and in geology. It forms from the accumulation of tiny silica shells from microorganisms or from the chemical precipitation of silica in sedimentary environments.