Pearl oysters are saltwater clams, marine bivalve molluscs. They have a strong inner shell layer composed of nacre, also known as "mother of pearl". Nacre is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an interior shell layer. It is also what makes pearls. It is very strong, resilient, and iridescent. This beautiful shell is 3 inches and weigh .8 ounces.  It was collected from Point Saint George beach in Crescent City California.  The fossil serpulid worm footprints on the surface of this shell are very interesting. The oyster tendon or stem is clearly visible on the interior of the shell.

Fossilization is a rare occurrence, because natural materials tend to be recycled. In order for an organism to be fossilized, the remains normally need to be covered by sediment as soon as possible. Taphonomy ("law of burial") is the term used to describe the process that results in the formation of a fossil. Permineralization occurs as part of the fossilization process and literally turns the organism into stone. The most common minerals involved in fossilization are forms of silica, aragonite, calcite, dolomite, illite, pyrite and spatite. To see more about our area and my hobbies, go to

www.oceantreasures.info.

I believe that once you hold one of my incredible pieces in your hands, you will not want to let it go. You will want to study it under magnification and may spend hours doing so. Therefore, complete satisfaction is guaranteed. Full refunds are available within 30 days. As soon as the item is received by the seller in its original condition, the refund will be processed. Postage to be paid by the buyer.

IMPORTANT: The photographs with this listing DO represent the EXACT item that you will receive. Colors may vary slightly as a result of the lighting during the photography process and computer moniter differences.

International shipping rates will be calculated at the time of sale.