Cryptic crossword clue
Precious stones beneath rock layers in plots 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word STRATAGEMS

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
S
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "plots" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case plots = stratagems.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does STRATAGEMS mean?

STRATAGEMS noun
  1. A tactic or artifice designed to gain the upper hand, especially one involving underhanded dealings or deception.

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