= minera, n. Also: a mineral impregnation.

(a) a type of stone (not identified); (b) a rock from which another rock is derived by structural or chemical change, a parent rock; (c) the matrix…

The matrix in which a metal or precious stone was formerly believed to grow; the ore of a metal (see also quot. 1890). Also figurative, esp. in…

An embedding or enclosing mass; esp. the rock material in which a metal, fossil, gem, etc., is embedded. Cf. gangue, n.

the matrix of an ore.

Geology and Mining. Cf. vein, n. 2a. Crystalline or earthy matter forming the bulk of the material in a vein and containing metallic ore; gangue…

The unwanted or valueless part of a mineral deposit, surrounding or mixed with the ore; the matrix (matrix, n. 3a) in which a mineral occurs. Cf. vein…

Crystalline or earthy matter forming the bulk of the material in a vein and containing metallic ore; = veinstone, n. 1a.

= gangue, n.

= matrix, n. 3a. Now rare.

Mining. (See quot. 1881.)

Originally applied to the silicate gangue of certain Archæan iron-ore or other mineral deposits, esp. where these occur in limestone or dolomite; now…