noun
- A dark, brittle, elastic mineral or fossil resin, similar to amber, found in certain rock formations.
Usage: geology; mineralogy; rare
Examples
- The geologist identified the specimen as elaterite based on its elastic properties and dark coloration.
- Elaterite deposits are occasionally found in coal seams and shale formations.
- Unlike amber, elaterite tends to be more brittle and less transparent.
- The museum's mineral collection includes a small sample of elaterite from the Carboniferous period.