Where is Fossilized Coral found?
Fossilized colonial coral (e.g., Favosites or Hexagonaria)
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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
Michigan, USA
Famous for Petoskey Stone (Hexagonaria percarinata), found in the Devonian-age Traverse Group formations, particularly along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
Florida, USA
Known for agatized coral, particularly from the Tampa Bay area, often found in Miocene-age formations.
Indonesia
Produces a wide variety of fossilized corals, often with vibrant colors, from various Cenozoic and Mesozoic marine deposits.
Morocco
Known for Paleozoic fossil corals, often found in limestone formations.
Australia
Various locations yield fossilized corals from different geological periods.
United Kingdom
Devonian and Carboniferous coral fossils are found in certain limestone and shale deposits.
Collecting tips
- Look in Marine Sedimentary Rocks. Focus on areas with exposed marine sedimentary rock layers, especially limestones, shales, and sandstones, that are known to contain fossils. Riverbeds, lake shores, and quarries can be good hunting grounds.
- Identify Coral Patterns. Learn to recognize the characteristic patterns of colonial corals, such as the hexagonal cells of Hexagonaria or the honeycomb structure of Favosites. These patterns are key to identification.
- Check for Silicification. Silicified coral will be harder than typical limestone and will not react with dilute hydrochloric acid (unless there are remaining calcite portions). Look for a waxy or vitreous luster on broken surfaces.
- Wet the Surface. Wetting the surface of a potential specimen can often enhance the visibility of the fossilized coral patterns, making them easier to identify.
- Research Local Geology. Consult geological maps and local fossil guides to identify specific formations and localities known for producing fossilized corals in your area of interest.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Variable (gray, brown, white, black, pink, red, orange)
- Luster:
- Vitreous to waxy
- Streak:
- White
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