sedimentary
Fossiliferous Limestone
Carbonate sedimentary rock (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to light brown, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: clastic/fragmental with visible biological cavities
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Fossiliferous Limestone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale), Color: tan to light brown, Luster: dull to earthy, Texture: clastic/fragmental with visible biological cavities
Formation & geological history
Formed in shallow marine environments from the accumulation of calcium carbonate and skeletal fragments of organisms (corals, shells, algae) over millions of years, typically during the Paleozoic or Mesozoic eras.
Uses & applications
Used in construction for road base, concrete aggregate, lime production, and as an architectural building stone.
Geological facts
This specimen appears to be 'honeycomb' or vuggy limestone, often formed when softer materials or fossils within the rock dissolve, leaving behind a porous structure. It is a major carbon sink for the Earth's atmosphere.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its reaction to dilute hydrochloric acid (it will fizz) and the presence of small holes or fossil imprints. Commonly found in areas that were ancient seafloors.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary