XXI. Account of a Variety of Argillaceous Limestone t found in 
connexion with the Iron-stone of Staffordshire . 
CurL The name evidently alludes to the convoluted form of its 
distinct concretions, each of which is either itself a complete and 
regular cone, or is wrapped round part of a cone, which serves as the 
basis of its structure. Each distinct concretion, on being parted from 
the conical surface to which it has been attached, presents on its con- 
cavity a series of wrinkles, regularly indented, and always parallel to 
the base of the cone. The convex surface is longitudinally striated. 
The circular bases of the cones project a little one beyond another, 
and thus give to the external surface of the mass the appearance of 
leaves folded over one another. Hence has arisen the conjecture, 
that the mineral in question is a petrified palm, or lotus. This opi- 
nion would have been immediately abandoned, if those who adopted 
it had descended into the bowels of the earth to see the substance in its 
natural situation, instead of merely inspecting the detached masses 
of it, which, in the neighbourhood of Cosely, are seen on every 
side, lying upon the ground, or used in building walls. 
The fracture of this mineral is splintery ; its colour greyish black. 
By the Rev. JAMES YATES, M.A. 
MEMBER OF THE GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 
[Read January 21, 1820.] 
variety of limestone here referred to is called by the mi 
miners 
Vol. V. 
3 a 
