Wiktionary
n. (context geology English) Any of various metamorphic rocks formed by metasomatism
Wikipedia
Skarns or tactites are calcium-bearing calc–silicate rocks. Skarns are most often formed at the contact zone between intrusions of granitic magma bodies and carbonate sedimentary rocks such as limestone and dolostone. Hot waters derived from the granitic magma are rich in silica, iron, aluminium, and magnesium. These fluids mix in the contact zone, dissolve calcium-rich carbonate rocks, and convert the host carbonate rock to skarn deposits in a metamorphic process called metasomatism. The resulting metamorphic rock may consist of a very wide variety of minerals dependent largely on the original composition of the magmatic fluids and the purity of the carbonate sedimentary rocks.
Skarns are sometimes associated with mineable accumulations of metallic ores of iron, copper, zinc, lead, gold, and several others. In such cases these deposits are called "skarn deposits".
Usage examples of "skarn".
While Skarn and Flax were totally absorbed in their duel by magic, Drop edged quietly toward the desk.
He succeeded just in time, for Skarn produced a wave of force that flung Flax bodily against a bookcase, temporarily dazing the wizard.
These vital distractions occurred at the height of the magical duel between Flax and Skarn, who had come to steal a potion from the wizard.
Skarn was at once transformed into a warty, mouse-scented demon, which the recovered Flax promptly dispersed.