Many thanks Roy, and also Kate Riddington who came in a fraction ahead of you with the same conclusion! Problem solved. This JISCMAIL list really is a great resource for all of us to share knowledge in such a fast and constructive manner.

Matthew

 

 

Hi Matthew

 

This is what is known as a “Beetle Stone”. It is the silicified core of a septarian nodule where the sideritic matrix has rotted away.

 

They are not uncommon in the North Pennines of England – see for example my paper published jointly with Brian Young – ‘Cellular’ Quartz from Teesdale, Northern Pennines. Journal of the Russell Society (2013) page 19-24.

 

Cheers

Roy

 

 

A crate of long undisturbed historical collections has provided this specimen with no data or provenance or identification. We are at a loss as to what it is and would appreciate any thoughts on the specimen. It is not calcareous.

 

Dr Matthew A Parkes

National Museum of Ireland - Natural History

Merrion Street, Dublin 2, Ireland

Email: [log in to unmask]

Telephone: +353 (0)87 122 1967 or 01-6307006

 

 

Taispeántas nua - Dearbhú na Poblachta: Éirí Amach 1916
New exhibition - Proclaiming a Republic: The 1916 Rising
http://www.museum.ie/1916/

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