fossil

Fossilized vertebra, likely mammalian

Mineralized vertebral centrum and neural arch; exact taxon indeterminate from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Porous, gray-beige bone with preserved vertebral architecture and weathered surfaces; fossil bone commonly consists of apatite (calcium-phosphate) replacing or infilling original bone. Hardness is approximately 5 on the Mohs scale, with dull to earthy luster and no prominent cleavage.

Identified August 15, 2026More fossil →

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At a glance

Common name: Fossilized vertebra, likely mammalian
Scientific name: Mineralized vertebral centrum and neural arch; exact taxon indeterminate from the image
Category: fossil
Identified: August 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $10-$75 for a common unidentified fragment; $100-$500 or more if complete, well-prepared, legally collected, and taxonomically identified.

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

A vertebra buried in sediment was gradually permineralized during diagenesis, commonly over thousands to millions of years; age and species cannot be determined reliably from this photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a natural-history or decorative collectible; scientifically useful specimens may support paleontological research, though collecting may be restricted on public or protected land.

Geological facts

The central body (centrum), neural arch, and openings for nerves appear partially preserved. Its irregular, heavily porous appearance is more consistent with fossil bone than with an ordinary rock.

Field identification & locations

Look for repeated anatomical symmetry, a vertebral canal, articular surfaces, and cellular pores; confirm with locality records and professional identification. Common fossil vertebrae occur in sedimentary basins worldwide.