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Where is Fossilized Coral found?

Fossilized Coral (Anthozoa)

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Fossilized 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, particularly the 'Florida Agatized Coral' which is the state stone. Found in Miocene-Pliocene age deposits.

Indonesia (Sumatra, Java)

Produces a wide variety of fossilized corals, often with excellent preservation and diverse colors, from Cenozoic marine deposits.

Morocco

Known for Devonian and Carboniferous age fossil corals, often preserved in limestone.

Utah, USA

Various locations yield fossil corals, particularly from Paleozoic formations.

Australia

Diverse occurrences across the continent, including Paleozoic and Mesozoic reef systems.

United Kingdom

Carboniferous Limestone formations contain numerous fossil corals.

Collecting tips

  1. Target Sedimentary Formations. Look for areas with exposed marine sedimentary rocks, especially limestones, shales, and sandstones that were deposited in ancient shallow marine environments.
  2. Identify Coral Reef Environments. Research geological maps and literature to locate areas known for ancient coral reef systems. These are prime locations for finding fossilized coral.
  3. Examine Weathered Surfaces. Fossilized coral can sometimes be found as float on weathered surfaces or in stream beds where erosion has exposed the underlying rock layers. Look for distinctive patterns.
  4. Look for Distinctive Patterns. The unique radial or colonial patterns of coral polyps are key identifiers. Even in fragmented pieces, these patterns can be visible.
  5. Check for Hardness. Silicified coral will be harder than typical limestone. A scratch test with a steel knife (Mohs hardness ~5.5) can help differentiate it; chalcedony (7) will not scratch, while calcite (3) will.

Quick Check

Color:
Variable, often patterned with shades of white, gray, brown, or earthy tones, sometimes vibrant colors like pink, red, orange.
Luster:
Vitreous to waxy.
Streak:
White.

Explore Fossilized Coral

Overview

Full guide to Fossilized Coral

Identification

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