Skarn is a type of metamorphic rock that forms when limestone or dolostone is altered by the intrusion of hot magma. This process creates a variety of minerals, including garnet, pyroxene, and wollastonite, which can be valuable for mining. Skarn deposits often contain important metals like copper, gold, and tungsten. The formation of skarn typically occurs in regions where tectonic activity is present, such as near volcanoes or mountain ranges. These rocks are significant in geology and mining because they can indicate the presence of mineral resources, making them important for economic exploration.