Starting Your Fossil Collection
There’s nothing more interesting than nature; exploring nature can teach us about history and all about how the world used to work before humans inhabited the planet. Fossils are one of our favorite ways to learn about the history of the earth.
Not only are fossils educational, but starting a fossil collection can be a fun source of entertainment and a way to connect with those around you. When you buy fossils, you support the local economy in which they are sold, and you support scientists who seek to learn more about natural history through fossils.
How are Fossils Made?
The way fossils are formed, called fossilization, is an extraordinary process that nature does all on its own in order to preserve natural elements. There are several different types of fossilization, all with unique attributes that will make your fossil collection extremely diverse.
The most common type of fossilization is called permineralization. Permineralization refers to the process in which organic material fills up crevices and open spaces in plants and animals. The organic matter, whether it’s dirt, a type of mineral, or something else, then hardens to form the fossils we see today.
Another common type of fossilization that would make a great addition to your fossil collection is anything that is made by trace fossilization. Trace fossils are almost the opposite of fossils formed via permineralization; the animal or plant leaves an imprint in soil that then hardens and is preserved. Common types are footprints and wormholes.
Why Should I Start a Fossil Collection?
Starting a fossil collection allows you to form a connection to nature, learn about the world around you, and create a family heirloom that can be around for generations. When you buy fossils, you expand your natural history education.
Future generations of your family also benefit when you buy fossils. Your fossil collection can be a learning tool for your kids and grandkids, and it might even be worth a good amount of money one day!
Most importantly, starting a fossil collection is a great hobby and can be something you enjoy just for you. You can buy fossils to reward yourself for a job well done, when you’re feeling down, or just because you want to!
What Types of Fossils Can I Buy to Start My Fossil Collection?
There are hundreds of different fossils out there to start your fossil collection, but these three categories are our favorites:
Shark Teeth
Shark teeth aren’t always the first things that come to mind when thinking about fossils, but they are one of the most common and popular types! When shark teeth are fossilized, the minerals that form the fossil end up turning the teeth a darker color. Even though sharks have white teeth like humans, most fossils will be grey, brown, or black.
Shark teeth are a phenomenal way to start your fossil collection because just about everyone finds them informative and interesting. Shark teeth fossils are also quite stunning. Our favorite statement pieces are this Megalodon Fossil Tooth and this Otodus Obliquus Fossil.
Trilobites
Trilobite fossils are another favorite of ours. Trilobites lived over 500 million years ago, so when you buy fossils in this category, you obtain a piece of history that’s likely much older than anything else you’ve ever owned.
Trilobites were arthropods and are known for their unique three-lobed shape. They were unlikely predators that fed from the carcasses and bodies of other sea creatures. Because they were often quite small, they were a surprising predator and were very successful in their hunts.
We think the perfect trilobite to start your fossil collection is this Phacops Trilobite Fossil. This particular piece is large and shows all the cool, intricate details of the animal.
Ammonites
If you go to buy fossils and come across ammonites, we recommend that you add that to your cart! Ammonite fossils are similar to trilobites in that they are ancient sea creatures. Though they were also predators, ammonites were considered cephalopods.
Ammonites are some of the most striking fossils you can buy because of their spiral shape and varying hues. The different segments often end up being different colors, making them look almost tie-dyed. Ammonites can be small and dainty or very large, like this Phylloceras Ammonite Fossil.
Fun Facts for Your Fossil Collection
When you buy fossils, you unearth bits and pieces of history that will blow your mind. A fun fact about fossils is that paleontologists did not know the first dinosaur fossil was a dinosaur at all. In fact, upon its discovery in 1677, scientists first thought it was the fossil of a giant human that may have roamed the earth. That was quickly debunked!
Another favorite fossil fact is that the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil is named Sue, after the scientist that discovered most of the pieces. Sue now lives in the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois.
Where To Buy Fossil Jewelry
If you’re in the market to buy fossils that are multifunctional, look no further! Many fossils make gorgeous pieces of jewelry that would be perfect for a nature enthusiast, history buff, or lover of the finer things in life.
3 of our favorite pieces of fossil jewelry include:
- Parotodus Benedeni with Turquoise Inlay
- Ammonite Pendant
- Baltic Amber Adjustable Ring
All of the pieces above are great examples of creative ways to buy fossils. The shark tooth necklace with turquoise is a statement piece that would make a fabulous addition to any nautical outfit. The ammonite pendant is dainty and a perfect gift for the budding paleontologist in your life.
The Baltic amber ring may seem surprising, but it is indeed a fossil! Baltic amber looks like a gemstone and is often used as one, but it’s actually fossilized tree resin. It has many uses, both aesthetic and medicinal, that make it very popular among those who buy fossils!
Whaler’s Locker is the One-Stop-Shop for Buying Fossils
Whether you choose to buy fossils to gift or to start your own fossil collection, you can rest assured that Whaler’s Locker is the perfect place to peruse. When you buy fossils from us, you’re supporting a small, local Hawaii business and obtaining the highest quality products.