totelike

Totelike refers to a specific geological formation found in the Atacama Desert of Chile. These structures are characterized by their resemblance to small, stacked, rounded stones or pebbles, hence the name "totelike" which is derived from the word "tote" meaning a small bag or bundle. These formations are a type of geode, which are hollow or partially hollow rocks containing crystalline mineral matter.

The totelike formations typically consist of an outer shell, often composed of silica or other mineral cements, that encloses a cavity filled with crystals, commonly quartz or calcite. Their formation is thought to be related to specific conditions of evaporation and mineral deposition within porous rock layers in the arid environment of the Atacama. Over long periods, groundwater carrying dissolved minerals seeps through the rock. As the water evaporates, minerals are deposited, gradually building up the outer shell and filling the internal space.

These unique geological features are of interest to geologists and mineral enthusiasts for their unusual morphology and the insight they provide into the geological processes of arid environments. While not as common as other geode types, totelike formations are a distinctive element of the Atacama Desert's diverse mineral landscape. They are generally found embedded within larger rock formations and are often discovered through erosion.