Fossilized Tabulate/Rugose Coral Colony or Bryozoan Limestone Matrix
Favosites sp. or similar colonial tabulate coral (commonly known as honeycomb coral) • Body fossil, invertebrate colonial organism (likely coral or bryozoan)
Geological Period
Silurian to Devonian (or potentially Carboniferous)
Estimated Age
350 to 440 million years old
Preservation Type
Permineralization and calcitic replacement within a bioclastic matrix
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; shows natural weathering and surface exposure of internal structures with minor matrix encrustation
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Cnidaria (or Phylum Bryozoa), Class Anthozoa, Order Tabulata/Rugosa
Morphological Description
Exhibits a prominent colonial structure with numerous closely packed, polygonal corallites creating a honeycomb-like surface texture across multiple exposed faces of the matrix.
Rock Matrix
Crinoidal or fossiliferous limestone with weathered light tan/buff coloration
Formation & Location
Midwest United States (e.g., Louisville Limestone, Jeffersonville Limestone) or similar ancient shallow marine carbonate platforms globally
Size & Dimensions
Large specimen, approximately 30 cm to 45 cm in length, well exceeding typical isolated colony fragments
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $120 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, widely distributed in Paleozoic marine limestone deposits
Scientific Significance
Provides valuable insight into ancient tropical marine reef ecosystems, paleo-water conditions, and colonial organism growth habits during the Paleozoic era
Preparation Recommendations
Gentle mechanical cleaning with a soft brush and water to remove loose dirt; optional light acid preparation or sealing if stabilization is desired, but stable as-is for display
Notable Features
Large, rugged colonial mass displaying exceptional multi-directional exposure of honeycomb internal corallite walls and pores