sedimentary
Fossiliferous Limestone
Biogenic Sedimentary Rock (primarily CaCO3)
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, colors range from white, tan, and yellow to gray, dull to earthy luster, fine-grained to microcrystalline structure with visible fossil fragments and small vugs/holes.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, colors range from white, tan, and yellow to gray, dull to earthy luster, fine-grained to microcrystalline structure with visible fossil fragments and small vugs/holes.
Formation & geological history
Formed in marine environments through the accumulation and compaction of shell, coral, algal, and fecal debris, often millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Used in construction, production of lime and cement, road base, and as decorative architectural stone or for educational fossil study.
Geological facts
Many limestone formations contain ancient sea life fossils, providing a direct window into prehistoric marine ecosystems and past climates.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid (fizzing due to calcite) and the presence of visible fossil molds or casts.
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