Geology and Minerals

Desert varnish

Desert varnish or rock varnish is an orange-yellow to black coating found on exposed rock surfaces in arid environments. Desert varnish is approximately one micrometer thick and exhibits nanometer-scale layering. Rock rust and desert patina are other terms which are also used for the condition, but less often.

Also on this shelf

See also

• ▸Dolomite (mineral)
• ▸Ciutadella Lighthouse
• ▸Iztaccihuatl

Uncatalogued shelf

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