fossil
Bivalve Fossil (Fossilized Shell)
Class Bivalvia (fossilized in Calcium Carbonate/Aragonite)
Porous texture with visible growth rings (concentric lines), hardness 3-3.5 on Mohs scale, matte white to off-white color, brittle with dull luster, distinct bivalve hinge geometry.
Identified More fossil →
Explore Bivalve Fossil (Fossilized Shell) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Porous texture with visible growth rings (concentric lines), hardness 3-3.5 on Mohs scale, matte white to off-white color, brittle with dull luster, distinct bivalve hinge geometry.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the process of permineralization or recrystallization where organic shell material is replaced or preserved by minerals (usually Calcite or Aragonite) in marine sedimentary environments during the Cenozoic or Mesozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Scientific study (paleontology), educational collections, decorative display, and garden landscaping.
Geological facts
Most fossil shells are composed of calcium carbonate; over millions of years, they can contribute to the formation of limestone or chalk deposits.
Field identification & locations
Identified by the symmetrical fan shape and concentric growth lines typical of clams. Commonly found in sedimentary rock layers such as limestone cliffs or near ancient dried-up sea beds.
More like this
Other fossil specimens
Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix
Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea
fossil
Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)
Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)
sedimentary
Chert with Fossil Brachiopod
Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Limestone
Fossiliferous Calcilutite / Biomicrite
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Limestone
Biogenic Limestone with Brachiopod/Crinoid fragments
sedimentary
Horn Coral (Rugose Coral)
Order Rugosa (extinct)
fossil