fossil

Fossilized Bone Chunk

Permineralized Vertebrate Bone (indeterminant)

Hardness: 5 (variable); Color: Tan, brownish-gray with dark mineralization; Luster: Dull to earthy; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline quartz replacement; Porosity: High, contains marrow cavity structure.

Hardness: 5 (variable)
Color: Tan, brownish-gray with dark mineralization
Luster: Dull to earthy

Identified July 18, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization where minerals (like silica or calcite) fill the pore spaces of bone after burial in sediment. Likely Mesozoic or Cenozoic in age.

Uses & applications

Educational specimen, paleontological research, and hobbyist collecting.

Geological facts

You can identify real fossil bone from rock by placing your tongue against it; fossil bone will often stick slightly due to the microscopic pores (capillary action).

Field identification & locations

Look for the distinctive 'honeycomb' or vascular texture on the cross-section. Commonly found in sedimentary basins or riverbeds where erosion exposes ancient layers.

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