banded stone crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "banded stone" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled the most common solutions, along with explanations and helpful tips to complete your grid.
Solutions for "banded stone crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ONYX: A chalcedony with parallel bands of different colors. It is often black and white, but other color combinations exist, also formed in layered structures.
5 Letters
AGATE: A common microcrystalline variety of silica, chiefly chalcedony, characterized by its fineness of grain and brightness of color, often forming in layers or bands within cavities of volcanic rocks.
More About "banded stone crossword clue"
The term "banded stone" in crosswords almost universally points to a type of mineral or rock exhibiting distinct parallel layers or bands. These patterns are typically formed by the rhythmic deposition of minerals over time, leading to variations in color, texture, or composition within the stone. Agate is by far the most famous example, known for its beautiful concentric or linear banding created as silica-rich fluids deposit layers within volcanic rock cavities.
Onyx is another notable banded stone, often recognized for its stark parallel bands, commonly in shades of black and white, though other color variations exist. These geological formations are not only aesthetically pleasing, making them popular in jewelry and decorative arts, but also fascinating examples of natural processes at work. Crossword setters often use descriptive terms like "banded" to hint at these specific mineral types, requiring solvers to draw upon their knowledge of geology and gemstones.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Context: For clues like "banded stone," consider the broad category (minerals, gems, geology) it belongs to. This narrows down potential answers significantly.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters. If "banded stone" appears and your grid has 5 spaces, AGATE is a strong candidate. If it's 4, ONYX might be the answer.
- Look for Common Associations: Some words are crossword staples. "Banded" frequently points to AGATE or ONYX due to their well-known characteristics. Memorizing these common associations can speed up your solve time.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're unsure, solve intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers will provide crucial hints for the "banded stone" clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "banded stone" in general?
A banded stone refers to any rock or mineral that exhibits distinct parallel layers or bands of varying color, texture, or composition. These bands are often formed by the rhythmic deposition of minerals over time or by geological processes that create layered structures.
Why is "AGATE" a common answer for "banded stone" clues?
Agate is perhaps the most classic example of a naturally banded stone. It's a form of chalcedony known for its concentric layers of color and translucency, making it a perfect fit for clues referencing patterned or layered minerals.
How can I identify mineral-related answers in crosswords?
Pay attention to words like "stone," "gem," "ore," "rock," or "mineral" in the clue. Consider common gemstones (like AGATE, ONYX, OPAL), industrial minerals, or geological terms. Knowing common mineral names and their characteristics, especially visual ones like "banded," is very helpful.