sedimentary
Dinosaur Bone (Fossilized)
Permineralized Bone (CaCO3 or SiO2 after Hydroxylapatite)
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to brown with visible honeycomb pores, Luster: dull to earthy, Structure: preserves original osteon or cancellous (spongy) bone texture.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to brown with visible honeycomb pores, Luster: dull to earthy, Structure: preserves original osteon or cancellous (spongy) bone texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed during the Mesozoic Era (66-252 million years ago) through permineralization, where minerals fill the pore spaces of skeletal remains buried in sediment.
Uses & applications
Scientific study (paleontology), museum display, and lapidary art for jewelry (Gembone).
Geological facts
The appearance of the 'honeycomb' structure on the cross-section is a result of minerals infilling the marrow cavities of the original bone.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for the trabecular pattern (cellular structure) on the surface; it will often 'stick' to your tongue due to capillary action in the porous structure.
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