fossil

Fossil Coral

Phylum Cnidaria / Scleractinia

Mohs hardness of 3-4, typically white, cream, tan, or grey in color, dull to sub-vitreous luster, often displaying distinct circular or hexagonal calices (corallites) where the coral polyps once lived, specific gravity around 2.6-2.7.

Identified August 5, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in ancient shallow marine environments when coral reef structures were buried under layers of sediment and eventually fossilized, with the original calcium carbonate often being replaced by silica or preserved in limestone over millions of years (Paleozoic to Cenozoic eras).

Uses & applications

Used in educational displays, decorative lapidary work, jewelry, and as a collectible geological specimen.

Geological facts

Fossil corals are exceptional indicators of ancient tropical or subtropical shallow marine environments, helping geologists reconstruct Earth's paleoclimate history.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by the honeycomb or pore-like patterns (corallites) on the surface. Commonly found in limestone formations worldwide, especially in areas with ancient seabed exposure.