Fossil Coral 57.86 ct

Fossil Coral 57.86 ct
Fancy Cabochon
43.77 x 27.49 x 7.15 mm
max10001

Fossil coral is a natural gemstone that is created when prehistoric coral is gradually replaced with agate. Corals are marine animals and it is their skeletons that are fossilized and preserved. The fossil coral forms through hardened deposits left by silica-rich waters. The entire process can take over 20 million years.

The proper name for fossil coral is "agatized coral" or "agatized fossil coral." Agate, with its silicon dioxide composition (SiO2), is a variety of naturally occurring chalcedony--or microcrystalline quartz--rather than a type of coral. For this reason, fossil coral should not be mistaken for endangered or protected reef coral or precious coral. Fossil coral is also much harder than precious coral. Most agatized fossil coral exhibits a dull to waxy luster and interesting skeletal-like ancient coral patterns, most often appearing in flower shapes.

Fossil coral deposits are often used for the making of health and drug supplements because of their high calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium content. Because fossil coral can remove chemical impurities such as chlorine and formaldehyde it is used in industrial fertilizers and water purification filters.

Fossil Coral Metaphysical Properties
According to metaphysical beliefs, fossil coral is a grounding stone good for bringing about change. Agate is thought to be able to help heal pancreatic disorders and improve blood and air circulation. Fossil coral is used for healing eye, skin and stomach illnesses. It is even believed to enhance longevity.