sedimentary

Limestone with Fossil Imprints

Biogenic Limestone (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale); Color: light grey to tan; Luster: earthy/dull; Structure: fine-grained microcrystalline with fossiliferous indentations; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture).

Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale)
Color: light grey to tan
Luster: earthy/dull

Identified June 12, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Limestone with Fossil Imprints in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3 (Mohs scale); Color: light grey to tan; Luster: earthy/dull; Structure: fine-grained microcrystalline with fossiliferous indentations; Cleavage: none (conchoidal fracture).

Formation & geological history

Formed in shallow marine environments from the accumulation of shell, coral, and algal debris. The marks are tectonic or biological imprints (possibly shell fragments or 'chicken track' impressions) weathered into the stone over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in the manufacture of cement, as a building stone (limestone blocks), in agriculture to neutralize soil acidity, and as a crushed stone for road bases.

Geological facts

Limestone makes up about 10% of the total volume of all sedimentary rocks. It often contains fossils that help geologists date the rock layer and identify ancient environments.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its softness (can be scratched by a copper penny) and its reaction to weak acid (it will fizz or effervesce). Commonly found in ancient sea beds and karst landscapes.