Stromatolite Fossil Section – Cotham Marble, Triassic Period – Bristol, UK – 100% Genuine Specimen with Certificate

Description

This listing is for a genuine fossil specimen of a stromatolite, cut and polished to reveal its intricate internal structure. This section comes from the Cotham Marble, a distinctive and geologically significant rock unit within the Upper Triassic Mercia Mudstone Group, and was found near Bristol, UK.

Stromatolites are among the oldest records of life on Earth. They are layered bio-sedimentary structures formed by colonies of photosynthetic cyanobacteria—microorganisms that trapped and bound sediment particles in shallow water environments. Over time, these layers solidified into rock, creating a laminated fossil that represents the activity of some of Earth’s earliest lifeforms.

The Cotham Marble, also called “landscape marble,” is a stromatolitic limestone known for its banded appearance, sometimes resembling scenic landscapes in cut sections. It was deposited in intertidal to shallow marine environments during the Late Triassic period, around 220 million years ago. Although not a true marble geologically (since it is not metamorphosed), its polishable surface and unique appearance made it popular in Victorian architecture and decorative stonework.

Key Details:

• Specimen: Stromatolite Section
• Formation: Cotham Marble (Mercia Mudstone Group)
• Geological Period: Late Triassic (~220 million years ago)
• Location: Bristol, UK
• Fossil Type: Layered microbial mat structure (stromatolite)
• Condition: Naturally formed and polished; some may be propped for photos
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Photo: The image shows the exact specimen you will receive
• Scale: Please refer to the 1cm scale cube in the photograph

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Scientific & Display Value: This specimen offers a rare and educational glimpse into microbial life from over 200 million years ago. Stromatolites provide crucial evidence of early Earth conditions and atmospheric evolution, particularly the rise of oxygen through cyanobacterial activity. As a result, they are studied in both geology and astrobiology and valued in fossil collections worldwide.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Fast & Secure Shipping – Carefully packed and fully insured for safe delivery.

Own a polished section of one of Earth’s most ancient life forms – this Stromatolite fossil from the Cotham Marble of Triassic Bristol is a unique and scientifically fascinating addition to any fossil or mineral collection.