Where is Fossilized Coral found?
Coral (Anthozoa)
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Open the appFossilized Coral occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Fossilized Coral
Florida, USA
Known for its 'Agatized Coral' (Florida State Stone), particularly from the Tampa Bay area, found in Miocene-Pliocene age formations.
Indonesia (Sumatra)
Produces a wide variety of beautifully patterned fossilized corals, often from Tertiary age deposits.
Morocco
Known for Devonian age rugose and tabulate corals, often preserved in limestone.
Utah, USA
Various Paleozoic and Mesozoic formations contain fossilized corals.
Australia
Diverse occurrences across different states, including silicified corals.
United Kingdom
Carboniferous limestones contain numerous fossil coral species.
Collecting tips
- Geological Maps. Consult geological maps for areas known to have ancient marine sedimentary rock formations, especially those from periods when coral reefs were abundant (e.g., Devonian, Carboniferous, Permian, Mesozoic, Cenozoic).
- Coastal and River Exposures. Look in areas where sedimentary layers are exposed, such as coastal cliffs, riverbeds, quarries, and road cuts. Erosion often reveals fossils.
- Limestone and Chert Deposits. Fossilized corals are frequently found in association with limestone, chert, and silicified zones within sedimentary sequences.
- Paleontological Sites. Research known paleontological sites or fossil collecting localities in your region. Many areas are famous for their coral fossils.
- Surface Collection. In some areas, fossilized coral can be found as 'float' on the surface, weathered out of the surrounding rock.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Variable, often with visible coral patterns
- Luster:
- Vitreous to waxy
- Streak:
- White
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