Quartz (var. Agate, Silicified Coral) - Image 2

Quartz (var. Agate, Silicified Coral)

Name: Quartz (var. Agate, Silicified Coral)
SKU: 33651-PT
Availability: InStock

33651-PT Category: USA - Various Species and Localities

Tampa Bay, Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida

USA

Dimensions: 8.6x5.8x2.8 cm

Price: CA

$75.00

This striking specimen of agate replacing coral from Tampa Bay, Florida, showcases a beautiful mix of golden and caramel "cream" hues. While often categorized as fossilized, in mineralogical terms, this is a true pseudomorph, where agate has replaced the original coral structure. The polished, hollow colony exhibits a dramatic and sculptural form, revealing the structures of ancient colonial corals, now filled with botryoidal and banded chalcedony.

This specimen represents a fascinating intersection of biology and mineralogy, similar to petrified wood. The replacement process preserves the intricate details of the original coral while introducing the mesmerizing textures and translucency of chalcedony, making it a highly aesthetic and scientifically intriguing example of mineral transformation

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

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