greenstone

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   any of various compact dark-green rocks, especially altered basic igneous rocks such as diabase or diorite

   The geologist mapped a band of ancient greenstone between the granite outcrops.

2. 2
   noun

   a green mineral or stone valued for tools and ornaments, especially nephrite jade or New Zealand pounamu

   The pendant was carved from polished greenstone and passed down through the family.

A descriptive compound of green + stone. In geology it became a broad field term for greenish altered rocks; in cultural and archaeological contexts it can instead denote valued green minerals, especially jade-like materials such as nephrite and pounamu.

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