sedimentary
Fossiliferous Limestone
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) with fossil inclusions
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from grey, white, to tan, dull to earthy luster, microcrystalline to fine-grained crystal structure, good cleavage in some calcite forms, specific gravity around 2.7.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from grey, white, to tan, dull to earthy luster, microcrystalline to fine-grained crystal structure, good cleavage in some calcite forms, specific gravity around 2.7.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation and compaction of organic debris, shell fragments, and coral skeletons in shallow marine environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used in construction, cement production, road base material, agricultural lime, and by collectors interested in fossils.
Geological facts
Limestone often preserves delicate ancient marine life as fossils, providing a clear record of prehistoric ecosystems and past climates.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid (fizzing due to carbon dioxide release) and the visible presence of fossil fragments like crinoids or brachiopods.
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