Fossil Scleractinian Coral (Brain Coral / Star Coral)
cf. Favites sp. or Favia sp. (Honeycomb Coral) • Body fossil / Mineralized calcareous skeleton (Invertebrate)
Geological Period
Neogene to Quaternary (Pleistocene - Holocene)
Estimated Age
0.01 to 2.5 million years
Preservation Type
Original aragonitic/calcitic skeletal structure with light recrystallization, minor marine encrustation, and weathering; typical sub-fossil to recent fossil state.
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Displays detailed corallite structure across most of the surface, but exhibits a significant central structural cavity/breakage void.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Cnidaria, Class: Anthozoa, Subclass: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, Family: Faviidae
Morphological Description
Massive cerioid corallum showing well-defined polygonal corallites sharing common structural walls. Internal radial septa are clearly preserved within the corallite calices, radiating toward the central columella.
Rock Matrix
Calcareous reef limestone substrate; minimal attached matrix, specimen is a free-standing corallum.
Formation & Location
Pleistocene to Holocene raised reef terraces and marine deposits along Indo-Pacific coastal regions, Caribbean, or Florida Key Largo Limestone.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 15 cm to 22 cm in diameter, representative of medium-sized colonial corals.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $60 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $75 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common; fossil corals of this type are widely distributed in shallow-water carbonate deposits worldwide.
Scientific Significance
Provides evidence of past marine reef environments, sea-level changes, and paleoclimate conditions in coastal reef ecosystems.
Preparation Recommendations
Gentle dry brushing or soft water wash to remove loose dust; avoid acidic cleaning agents which dissolve calcium carbonate. Display in a dry environment on a stable ring support.
Notable Features
Distinct honeycomb-like cerioid calice pattern with well-preserved radial septa and a large natural central erosion cavity.