Lot 115B
North America, Southern United States, Central Florida, Withlacoochee River, Oligocene, ca. 38 million years ago. This large and remarkable geode specimen presents a unique and sizable segment of agatized coral dating back millions of years! Expansive, semi-translucent botryoidal formations of chalcedony (agate) across the surface boasts a captivating sculptural allure. While not readily apparent in photographs, the central area is prominently elevated, exhibiting striking high relief. These lustrous globular structures certainly enhance this ancient coral's rarity and aesthetic appeal- this is an extraordinary natural wonder, and perfect for display like a sculpture! It is noteworthy that agatized coral of such exceptional quality is typically reserved for exclusive custom jewelry, making this intact crystal specimen even more valuable in its natural form. Size: 8" L x 6.75" W (20.3 cm x 17.1 cm)
Under unique geological conditions, prehistoric corals and mollusks can fossilize by being replaced with agate and chalcedony (a type of agate) due to silica-rich ground water percolating through limestone. In 1979, the state of Florida designated agatized coral as the state stone, citing its beauty, association with the ocean, and the fact that the majority of agatized coral is found within the state's borders. Agatized coral occurs in a variety of colors, typically gray, brown, black, yellow, white, and on rare occasion red. The majority of Florida's agatized coral formed in Oligocene-Miocene Hawthorn Group sediments, and is occasionally dredged up in the Tampa and Clearwater areas but also occurs in limestones along the Econfina, Withlachoochee and Suwannee Rivers.
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 Diamond Springs, California, USA collection
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#184106
- Condition: No repairs or restoration, nice coloration and structures.
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| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |