Stunning Collenia undosa Proterozoic Stromatolites

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 is one of the prettiestI have seen, exhibiting mainly deep, deep red, with areas black and grey metallic. Many areas of the lamination are also present, in a powerful display of science and beauty. Note it was broken and glued across the bottom.

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.