This Specimen has been sold.
12.7" Polished, Asperia Stromatolite Section (23 lbs) - Australia
This is a large, polished section of columnar stromatolites (Asperia ashburtonia) from the 2 billion year old, Duck Creek Dolomite in Western Australia. The polished face measures 12.7 x 8.8" wide and the entire piece weighs 23 lbs. The back and sides are in a natural state, but the columnar structure of the stromatolite fossils can easily be seen. The base is cut flat, creating a very impressive display piece.
About Stromatolites
Stromatolites are fascinating, ancient rock formations created by the activity of cyanobacteria and other microorganisms. These layered, mound-like structures represent some of the earliest evidence of life on Earth, dating back over 3.5 billion years. Often found in shallow, warm waters, stromatolites form as layers of sediment and minerals are trapped and bound by microbial mats, gradually building up over time into unique, textured shapes.
Visually, stromatolites can range from smooth, rounded forms to intricate, banded structures, with colors that span earthy reds, browns, greens, and grays. Each layer captures a record of environmental conditions at the time of its formation, making stromatolites an invaluable source of information for scientists studying Earth’s early history and the origins of life.
Today, fossilized stromatolites are highly prized by collectors, both for their scientific significance and their natural beauty. Some living stromatolites can still be found in a few rare locations around the world, such as Shark Bay in Australia and certain alkaline lakes.
Stromatolites are fascinating, ancient rock formations created by the activity of cyanobacteria and other microorganisms. These layered, mound-like structures represent some of the earliest evidence of life on Earth, dating back over 3.5 billion years. Often found in shallow, warm waters, stromatolites form as layers of sediment and minerals are trapped and bound by microbial mats, gradually building up over time into unique, textured shapes.
Visually, stromatolites can range from smooth, rounded forms to intricate, banded structures, with colors that span earthy reds, browns, greens, and grays. Each layer captures a record of environmental conditions at the time of its formation, making stromatolites an invaluable source of information for scientists studying Earth’s early history and the origins of life.
Today, fossilized stromatolites are highly prized by collectors, both for their scientific significance and their natural beauty. Some living stromatolites can still be found in a few rare locations around the world, such as Shark Bay in Australia and certain alkaline lakes.
SPECIES
Asperia ashburtonia
LOCATION
Paraburdoo, Western Australia
FORMATION
Duck Creek Dolomite
SIZE
12.7" tall, 8.8" wide, 3.5" deep, 23 lbs
CATEGORY
ITEM
#64792
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