An exploration trench excavated at a right angle to the suspected strike of a mineralized lode. By stripping away the overburden down to solid rock, geologists and prospectors can map the width, grade, and exact location of a vein before committing to deep drilling or shaft sinking.
Heard on the job
We need an excavator up here to dig a costean across that quartz outcrop.
Also heard as
- Costeaning