Brachiopod Coquina, Baryte, Calcite, Marcasite

The limestone quarry near Aguathuna, situated on the Port-au-Port Peninsula along the west coast of Newfoundland, has gained prominence in recent decades for producing exceptional crystal specimens of baryte, calcite, and marcasite. Beyond its striking mineral finds, the site also offers a wealth of fascinating fossilized marine life, underscoring its prominent geologically richness. Among these are brachiopods that occasionally form coquina, a rock composed primarily of shells. The hollow interiors of these brachiopods are regularly lined with crystals of calcite, baryte, or marcasite. These shell fossils are abundant in the mounds at the quarry.

For an in-depth report on this locality and its unique mineralization, visit our blog article: Baryte, Calcite, and Marcasite Mineralization at Aguathuna.