Ventifact (wind-faceted stone)

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A ventifact is a wind-faceted stone. While rare, they are a common find at various places in the Netherlands. The flat faces of the rock were created by the sand-blasting action experienced in proglacial areas during the past ice ages. Due to winds from similar directions, saltating sand grains have worn down the original surface of the rock into a facet. They are not only found on Earth but are also common at the surface of the planet Mars. The unusual appearance of the geometric facet may give the impression to some that it might have been shaped by a more exotic (meteor related) processes.