fossil

Fossiliferous limestone with a possible shell or trace fossil

Calcitic limestone (mostly CaCO₃), fossil identity indeterminate from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Pale gray, fine-grained, matte carbonate rock with shallow fossil-like impressions. Calcite has Mohs hardness 3, perfect rhombohedral cleavage, and fizzes with dilute hydrochloric acid; the slab’s texture and relief are not sufficient to confirm a specific fossil.

Identified August 15, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely marine limestone formed from accumulated carbonate mud and shell material, later lithified; the visible feature may be a mollusk impression or trace fossil. Age cannot be determined visually, but sedimentary carbonates are common in the Arabian Peninsula, including Yemen’s Mesozoic–Cenozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Used for crushed stone, cement, lime, building stone, and decorative slabs; recognizable fossil pieces have modest educational or collector value.

Geological facts

The apparent raised and recessed outlines may partly be weathering or tool marks rather than a complete fossil. A close-up of the surface, scale reference, and a side view would help.

Field identification & locations

At approximately 15.4°N, 44.2°E, limestone is regionally plausible. Confirm by testing an inconspicuous spot for vigorous acid fizz, checking for shell symmetry or internal chambers, and examining whether the feature continues through the rock.