Agatized Coral - Florida

Gorgeous agatized coral from Florida.  Six to ten million years ago, according to the best theory, ash fall from a volcano in the Coahuiltecan region smothered coral reefs that were eventually incorporated in the landmass that is now known as Florida. The ash polluted the water, killing the coral. The silica in the ash cautilized the coral to petrify. The interior of the coral decayed and left an opening that allowed chalcedony crystal structures to line the coral, a process called pseudomorph. 

The first humans to have lived in Florida utilized Agatized Coral to create spears, knives and other tools for hunting, cooking and everyday life. Today, beautiful agatized coral geodes are found in the bays and rivers of western Florida such as Tampa, the Econfina River and the Withlacoochee/Suwannee river beds. Though once abundant, they are becoming rare and very difficult to collect. Florida has adopted Agatized Coral as its state stone. 

These specimens were collected in 1980-1981 when major excavations were made to replace sewer mains in the ballast point area of Tampa. It was originally thought to be left over ballast from sailing ships. Our specimens have been sawn in half and polished to expose their internal beauty. Under a longwave UV light, specimens are fluorescent. 

Each piece is similar, though no item at Crystal Joys is exactly the same as every item is a unique stone that is non-fabricated. Slight variations in color, size, and shape may exist. Every item at Crystal Joys is true "one of a kind". Contact us if you would like to see the specific stone prior to purchase and we would be happy to send you a picture prior to shipment. Slight variations in color, size, and bead shape exist.