gossan

[ gos-uhn, goz- ]

noun

1. a rust-colored deposit of mineral matter at the outcrop of a vein or orebody containing iron-bearing materials.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gossan¹

First recorded in 1770–80; originally dialect (Cornwall), from Cornish, derivative of gōs “blood”; akin to Welsh gwaed

Example Sentences

The ore in the gossan is very generally more valuable than it will be below, and this is especially true of gold and silver ores.

From Project Gutenberg

What is left is either iron oxide, “gossan,” or the oxides of the other metals.

From Project Gutenberg

The gossan does not often carry much value, though it may show traces of minerals which suggest what may be found below.

From Project Gutenberg

These iron-stained rocks are variously called the "gossan," the "iron capping," the "colorado," or the "eiserner Hut" (iron hat).

From Project Gutenberg

What is left is either iron oxide, "gossan," or the oxides of the other metals.

From Project Gutenberg