|  Viewing
this specimen (albeit, the black color makes photography difficult)
it is easy to see why jewelry makers prize this stromatolite from
the Mary Ellen Mine in Minnesota, commonly known as Mary Ellen
Jasper. As in this piece, the colors displayed can be truly stunning.
This one has had BOTH sides and all four edges are polished to
make a stunning display from any aspect.
Scientifically
known as Collenia undosa, the microorganisms involved were likely
to have been photosynthetic bacteria that were busily expiring
oxygen that would ultimately constitute the modern atmosphere
on earth during a time colloquially termed the “rusting
of the earth”. This particular specimen exhibits much deep,
deep red coloration, with other dark areas. Many areas of the
lamination are also present, in a powerful display of science
and beauty.
Stromatolites
have persisted to the modern day in such places as Shark Bay,
Australia where they continue their billions of years old lifestyle.
While this piece would make a fine present for any natural history
buff, anyone who appreciates art would also be glad to get thus
wonderful specimen of the Earth's oldest fossils as a gift.
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