fossil

Charlevoix Stone

Favosites alpenensis

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs); Color: Dark gray to black matrix with white or tan lattice; Luster: Matte when dry, waxy to vitreous when polished; Structure: Tabulate coral with honeycomb-like cells (corallites).

Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs)
Color: Dark gray to black matrix with white or tan lattice
Luster: Matte when dry, waxy to vitreous when polished

Identified July 15, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized remains of extinct tabulate coral from the Devonian period (approximately 350-400 million years ago) within a limestone matrix, typically occurring in ancient marine environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a collector specimen, for jewelry making (cabochons), and as a decorative souvenir.

Geological facts

The Charlevoix stone is similar to the Petoskey stone but is distinguished by its much smaller, honeycomb-like cell structure; it belongs to the Favosites genus rather than Hexagonaria.

Field identification & locations

Found along the shores of Lake Michigan, particularly near Charlevoix. It can be identified by its distinct white web-like pattern against a dark background, which becomes much more visible when wet.