Dendrites in Limestone (Large) - Solnhofen, Germany

At first glance, you might think this lovely specimen is an ancient plant fossil. But while it may look like fossilized ferns or a beautiful moss formation, it isn't a fossil at all, it's actually made of minerals! A beautiful geologic phenomenon known as a pseudofossil, this stone actually contains a type of mineralization called Dendrites. Dendrites form from manganese and iron oxide mineralization along fractures and bedding planes within rock. In this case, dendrites formed along the bedding plane of the famous fine-grained limestone in Solnhofen, Germany. The name may sound familiar, as this Jurassic Period rock layer was home to the first ever Archaeopteryx fossil linking birds to dinosaurs! Incredible detail along with lovely cream colors and earth tones will make this stone a stunning treasure for your home or office.