Flint
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/profile/14840">Evelyn Simak</a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Mineral NameFlint
Chemical FormulaSiO2
Mohs Hardness7
Crystal Systemamorphous
Lusterwaxy
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavagenone
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.65
Colorsdark grey, black, brown, olive green, reddish-brown
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalitySheringham beach, United Kingdom
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usestool making, building material, igniters, garden decoration
Associated Mineralschalk
Raritycommon
Description
The image displays numerous dark, irregularly shaped flint nodules, some with distinctive central holes, scattered across a sandy beach alongside white chalk outcrops.
Geological Context
Flint nodules form as secondary silica deposits within chalk beds, often replacing organic material. They are commonly found on beaches where the softer surrounding chalk has been eroded by wave action, exposing the harder flint.
