Lot 69B
Central Africa, Niger, South Central Sahara Desert, Tenere, Cretaceous, ca. 145.5 to 65 million years ago. Presenting an ultra-rare, substantial fossilized tree log from the dinosaur era, petrified in solid agate yet retaining detailed anatomical splinters of its wood form. This museum-class rarity was surface-collected decades ago during an expedition in Niger's Tenere Region, and allegedly found alongside dinosaur and "Super Croc" (Sarcosuchus) remains. It boasts unparalleled rarity and lifelike preservation, offering a glimpse into the lush, prehistoric forests that once thrived in the South Central Sahara Desert. Desert winds have polished one side to a glossy finish while the other bears silicified sand and gravel remnants. Size: 16" L x 4" W (40.6 cm x 10.2 cm)
During the Cretaceous period, which spanned from approximately 145 to 66 million years ago, Africa was part of the supercontinent Gondwana and covered by diverse ecosystems including lush forests. Petrified wood from this era in Africa provides a snapshot of ancient flora and environmental conditions. Formed through a process of rapid burial and mineral replacement, these petrified remnants reveal detailed cellular structures and sometimes even growth rings, bark, and knots. They are often found in regions that were once forested, now arid due to geological changes over millions of years. These fossils are prized for their scientific and educational value, shedding light on the continent's prehistoric biodiversity and geological history. Early human prehistoric stone tools made of petrified wood like this, have been found that date from the Acheulian to the Neolithic Periods, in the region from where this fossil log was found. There are areas in the Sahara that show multiple petrified trees that are the remains of entire forests once alive in prehistory.
Please note that this piece is a dropship item, meaning that it will be shipping from the consignor's location. All information regarding condition, size, stone identification, and metal content have been provided by the consignor.
Provenance: private California, USA collection
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#187940
- Condition: No repairs or restoration. Nice desert varnish and gloss from wind and sand exposure. Erosion to one side. Very rare and substantial size for its find site region!
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