Where is Fossilized Coral found?

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

Collecting tips

1. Identify Sedimentary Environments. Look for areas with ancient marine sedimentary rock outcrops, especially limestones, shales, and sandstones, which indicate past shallow marine environments conducive to coral growth.
2. Examine Weathered Surfaces. Fossilized coral can be more easily identified on weathered rock surfaces where the surrounding matrix has eroded away, exposing the more resistant silicified coral.
3. Look for Distinctive Patterns. The most reliable identification feature is the preserved internal structure of the coral polyps, appearing as radial, polygonal, or circular patterns. These are distinct from other rock textures.
4. Check Hardness. Since it's typically silicified, fossilized coral will be hard (Mohs 6.5-7), scratching glass and steel. This distinguishes it from un-silicified coral fossils (calcite, Mohs 3).
5. Acid Test (Caution Recommended). A small drop of dilute hydrochloric acid will not react with silicified coral, whereas un-silicified calcium carbonate coral will effervesce. Use this test sparingly and with caution, as it can damage specimens.

Quick Check

Color:

Variable (white, gray, brown, black, pink, red, orange, yellow, blue)

Luster:

Vitreous to waxy

Streak:

White

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