sedimentary

Fossil-bearing limestone, likely with a shell fossil

Bioclastic limestone, composed mainly of calcite (CaCO₃); fossil appears to be a shell or shell cross-section

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale tan to brown, rough and granular, with a rounded fossil inclusion. Calcite has Mohs hardness 3, a vitreous to dull luster, and trigonal crystal structure; limestone commonly reacts with dilute acid.

Identified September 30, 2026More sedimentary →

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At a glance

Common name: Fossil-bearing limestone, likely with a shell fossil
Scientific name: Bioclastic limestone, composed mainly of calcite (CaCO₃); fossil appears to be a shell or shell cross-section
Category: sedimentary
Identified: September 30, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand-sized fossil-bearing limestone specimen; more if the fossil is identifiable, rare, or well prepared.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as carbonate mud and shell fragments accumulate and lithify in marine settings. The specimen’s age and exact fossil identity cannot be determined from the photo alone.

Uses & applications

Limestone is widely used for cement, aggregate, and building stone; fossil-bearing pieces are mainly collected or displayed.

Geological facts

Limestone can preserve shells and other marine fossils as visible impressions or mineralized remains.

Field identification & locations

Look for fizzing with dilute acid and fossil shapes embedded in a carbonate matrix; common worldwide in former marine sedimentary basins. The pictured oval feature is suggestive of a shell fossil, but its identity is uncertain.