Is this a fossil we found in a store?

Is That Fossil You Found in a Store Really a Fossil? Let’s Find Out!

There’s something truly captivating about holding a piece of prehistoric life in your hands, isn’t there? Fossils – remnants of creatures and plants from ages long past – are like tangible connections to Earth’s history. That’s why they’re so popular in museum gift shops, rock and gem stores, and even online. But here’s the thing: not everything that glitters is gold, and not every “fossil” you see is the real McCoy. So, how do you tell if that cool-looking specimen you spotted is a genuine fossil or just a clever fake? Don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate the sometimes-tricky world of fossil collecting and give you the tools to spot a phony.

Okay, But What Is a Fossil, Exactly?

Before we go any further, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page. What exactly is a fossil? Well, in simple terms, it’s any preserved trace of something that used to be alive, from way back when. We’re talking bones, shells, footprints, even petrified wood – anything that gives us a glimpse into life as it existed in past geological eras. Generally speaking, if it’s older than 10,000 years, we call it a fossil. The fossil record, though incomplete, is like a giant, ever-evolving puzzle that helps us understand how life on Earth has changed over millions of years.

Real Deal or Replica? Spotting the Differences

So, how do you tell a real fossil from a fake? It takes a keen eye and a bit of detective work. Here’s what I look for:

• Weight and Feel: Real fossils tend to be surprisingly heavy. That’s because over time, the original organic material has been replaced by minerals, making them denser. Fakes, often made of resin or plastic, will feel noticeably lighter. It’s a bit like the difference between holding a real rock and a plastic one.
• Texture is Key: Authentic fossils have a certain texture to them. Think about bone – it has a unique, almost porous feel. Look closely at the surface. Do you see any natural wear, tiny cracks, or chips? Fakes, on the other hand, often have a uniform, almost too-perfect appearance. Sometimes you’ll even see little bubbles or faint lines from the mold they were cast in.
• Color Me Natural: Real fossils usually have uneven, natural coloration. They’ve been soaking up minerals from the earth for eons, so their color is rarely uniform. Fakes, however, are often artificially dyed or overly polished, giving them an unnatural look.
• Get Up Close and Personal: Grab a magnifying glass and really examine the details. Real fossils will have tiny imperfections and natural patterns that are hard to replicate. For example, shark teeth will have serrations, and shells will have growth lines.
• The “Tongue Test”: Okay, this one’s a bit old-school, and I wouldn’t recommend it for hygiene reasons, but some old-timers swear by it. The idea is that fossilized bone or shell will stick to your tongue a little bit because of its natural pores. But honestly, there are better ways to tell!

Common Fossil Fakes: Beware These Scams

Some fossils are faked more often than others. Knowing about these common forgeries can save you from getting ripped off:

• Moroccan Trilobites and Ammonites: Morocco is a fossil hotspot, especially for trilobites and ammonites. But it’s also a hotspot for fakes! Be suspicious of trilobites that look too perfect or are unusually large. Often, they’re assembled from different pieces or completely fabricated. And be warned: authentic ammonites are rarely pure white.
• Green River Fish Fossils: The Green River Formation in Wyoming is famous for its incredibly well-preserved fish fossils. But some unscrupulous folks will paint fake fish directly onto slabs of shale or enhance real fossils with paint.
• “Amber” Alert: You see those insects or even tiny reptiles “trapped” in amber online? Be careful! Many of those are modern specimens encased in resin, not genuine amber.
• Frankenstein Fossils: This is where someone combines pieces of different real fossils to create something that looks new or more impressive (and valuable). It’s like a fossil Frankenstein!

Provenance and Ethics: Know Where Your Fossil Comes From

When buying fossils, it’s crucial to know where they came from. A reputable seller should be able to tell you about the fossil’s origin and history. Certificates of Authenticity (COAs) can offer extra peace of mind. But also, think about the ethics of fossil collecting. Make sure the fossils you buy were obtained legally and ethically. Avoid specimens from protected areas or sites that were illegally excavated.

Where to Find the Real Deal

So, where should you go to buy fossils? There are plenty of options! Reputable online stores, dedicated fossil shops, and rock and mineral shows are all good places to start.

When in Doubt, Ask an Expert

If you’re just not sure about a fossil, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Museums and universities often have experts who can identify fossils. Some even have “Fossil ID Days” where you can bring in your finds for examination.

Affordable Fossils for Beginners

Just starting out? No problem! There are plenty of common fossils that are both affordable and fascinating:

• Ammonites: These spiral-shaped fossils are super popular and easy to find.
• Trilobites: These ancient arthropods are another great choice for beginners.
• Shark Teeth: Who doesn’t love a shark tooth? They’re some of the most common fossils out there.
• Petrified Wood: This fossilized wood is both beautiful and readily available.
• Brachiopods: These marine creatures with hard shells are similar to clams and lived millions of years ago.

Final Thoughts

Collecting fossils is a fantastic hobby. It’s a way to connect with the deep history of our planet and learn about the incredible diversity of life that has existed over millions of years. By doing your homework, knowing what to look for, and buying from reputable sources, you can build a collection of authentic fossils that you’ll treasure for years to come. Happy hunting!