Brickearth

Brickearth is a term originally used to describe superficial windblown deposits found in southern England. The term has been employed in English speaking regions to describe similar deposits.

Brickearths are periglacial loess, a wind-blown dust deposited under extremely cold, dry, peri- or postglacial conditions. The name arises from its early use in making house bricks, its composition being suitable for brick-making without additional material being added. Its composition also allows the clay to be fused at temperatures attainable in a wood fired kiln.