Chert is a very hard material that produces a spark when it is struck against steel. The heat from this spark can be used to start fires. A “flintlock” is an early firearm in which a charge of gunpowder is ignited by a flint hammer striking a metal plate (see photo).

A variety of metamorphosed chert known as “novaculite” has a porous, even texture that makes it useful as a sharpening stone. The Arkansas Novaculite Formation has become world famous as a source of high-quality sharpening stones and novaculite abrasive products.