Agatized Coral

Agatized Coral
$250.00
Item number: 1

Agatized Coral from Tampa Florida


Agatized coral from Tampa Bay is a rare mineralized fossil that forms when silica-rich ocean water replaces ancient coral skeletons with chalcedony quartz over millions of years. Dating back 25 to 38 million years to the Oligocene epoch, it was officially designated as Florida's state stone in 1979. 

 

Key Characteristics

 

  • Mineral Replacement: The original calcium carbonate skeleton is converted into quartz (chalcedony), preserving the delicate honeycomb and star-like patterns of the coral. 
  • Geodes & Druzy Pockets: Tampa Bay specimens are highly sought after because they frequently form hollow geodes lined with druzy quartz, or crystal structures like common opal. 
  • Rare Colors: While typically white, honey, or yellow, Tampa Bay is globally famous as one of the only places on Earth to produce blue, black, and red agatized coral. 

 

Sourcing and Collecting

Historically famous for specimens dredged from the Ballast Point area, natural deposits are now highly restricted. Most specimens entering collections today are sourced legally from riverbeds and limited coastal outcroppings. 

If you are looking to purchase these fossils, prices range widely depending on the rarity of color, size, and whether the stone is cut and polished: