fossil

Fossilized bone fragment (probable large mammal bone)

Mineralized vertebrate bone; commonly hydroxyapatite, Ca₅(PO₄)₃(OH), partly replaced by silica or calcite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tan-brown, porous and fibrous with apparent cortical texture; hardness commonly about 3–5 when mineralized, variable luster, and no regular crystal cleavage. The shape and texture resemble a weathered bone fragment, though a photograph cannot confirm identification.

Identified August 24, 2026More fossil →

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At a glance

Common name: Fossilized bone fragment (probable large mammal bone)
Scientific name: Mineralized vertebrate bone; commonly hydroxyapatite, Ca₅(PO₄)₃(OH), partly replaced by silica or calcite
Category: fossil
Identified: August 24, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$50 for an unidentified fragment; $100–$1,000+ if scientifically identified, attractive, legally collected, and well-provenanced.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Buried bone undergoes fossilization as groundwater minerals replace or fill its pores over thousands to millions of years; age and species are indeterminate from the image. It likely formed in sedimentary deposits such as river, cave, or floodplain sediments.

Uses & applications

Used for educational display, paleontological study, and collecting; value depends mainly on confirmed species, provenance, completeness, and legal documentation.

Geological facts

Bone often retains a distinctive vascular pore pattern and dense outer cortex; a fresh broken surface may reveal contrasting porous interior and fibrous structure.

Field identification & locations

Inspect for repeating vascular canals and a porous interior; compare density with ordinary limestone and avoid destructive testing. Common fossil bones occur in the western United States, Africa, and many sedimentary basins worldwide.