fossil

Fossil Coral

Scleractinia (Fossilized Coral)

Hardness: 3 to 4 on the Mohs scale (for the calcite/aragonite replacement), Color: Cream, white, tan, or gray, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Structure: Rugose or tabular coral skeletal structures preserved in calcium carbonate

Identified August 1, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in ancient shallow marine environments when coral polyps secreted calcium carbonate skeletons that were subsequently buried in sediment and fossilized over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used in lapidary arts, ornamental carvings, jewelry making, and as educational or display specimens for fossil collectors.

Geological facts

Fossil corals can sometimes be replaced entirely by agate or chalcedony through the process of silicification, which creates extremely durable and colorful gemstone material known as agatized coral.

Field identification & locations

Identified by distinct honeycomb, star-shaped, or chain-like coral calices (pore structures) on the surface. Commonly found in limestone deposits worldwide, particularly in areas with ancient shallow sea beds.