glauconitic

Glauconitic refers to something containing or composed of glauconite. Glauconite is a mica-type mineral that is part of the smectite group. It is typically green in color and is formed by the slow decomposition of silicate minerals in marine environments. Its formation is often associated with conditions of low oxygen and slow sedimentation rates.

In geology, glauconite is a common constituent of marine sedimentary rocks, particularly glauconitic sandstone and glauconitic limestone. These rocks are often found in shallow to moderate depth marine settings. The presence of glauconite can serve as an indicator of depositional environments and can also be used for radiometric dating of sedimentary rocks. The mineral has a specific layered structure and its chemical composition includes potassium, iron, and magnesium.

The term "glauconitic" can also be used to describe sediments or soils that have a significant proportion of glauconite. These soils can have unique chemical and physical properties. In some geological contexts, glauconitic deposits are economically important, for instance, as a source of fertilizer due to their potassium content.