Rock Identifier
Turritella Agate (Chalcedony containing fossilized Eliminia tenera) — fossil
fossil

Turritella Agate

Chalcedony containing fossilized Eliminia tenera

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, earthy brown to black matrix with spiral gastropod shells, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure.

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Physical properties

Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, earthy brown to black matrix with spiral gastropod shells, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure.

Formation & geological history

Formed in ancient Eocene freshwater lakes where high concentrations of silica replaced organic material in snail shells over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts, ornamental carvings, and collector display pieces.

Geological facts

Despite the trade name 'Turritella', the fossilized snails inside are actually freshwater Elimia gastropods, not marine Turritella.

Field identification & locations

Identified by dense concentrations of small, distinct spiral snail fossils embedded within a chalcedony or limestone matrix, commonly found in Wyoming, USA.

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