A Stromatolite Slab

Stromatolites—mineral concretions formed by generations of photosynthetic cyanobacteria—are the first and oldest known evidence of life on planet Earth.

During photosynthesis, cyanobacteria produce an adhesive-like compound that cements together layer upon layer of minerals, eventually resulting in a stromatolite fossil. These "microbial mats" document the origins of life on Earth. For over two billion years, cyanobacteria produced enough oxygen to sufficiently alter the atmosphere, affectively setting the stage for the evolution of literally every form of life this planet has ever seen. In short, the story of life starts with stromatolites.

The specimen offered here is over 2 billion years old and exhibits undulating, deep red hues considered to be the most desirable in Minnesotan stromatolites. Yielding from a now-closed mine, this beautifully polished fossil represents a rare opportunity to own an ancient, primordial, and fundamental piece of the story of life on Earth.

Private Florida collection from 1998 until present