Rock specimens from around the globe on display at the Beneski Museum show how rocks from millions of years ago are used in contemporary art and home design.
Agate, which is a type of quartz, forms over millions of years inside cavities in volcanic or ancient lava rocks. Because of their natural beauty agate slices and patterns are frequently used in wall murals, canvas art prints, jewelry and even kitchen counter tops.
Andalusite Hornfels is a metamorphic rock which includes crystal within it. It is around 400 million years old. These crystals can resemble seeds, pods, or stems, giving the rock a deceptive organic look. Because of its toughness and attractive appearance, it is frequently used in architecture for interior flooring and curbing, and also in modern art installations.
Sutured Ammonites were prehistoric marine animals that went extinct approximately 65 million years ago. This fossil exhibits natural “fractal-like” patterns, which are the wavy lines (sutures) formed where the internal chamber walls (septa) met the outer shell. These intricate, often leaf-like or feathered designs, are highly valued in both fine art and personal crafts.
This fossil plate contains several crinoids, prehistoric marine animals commonly known as “sea lilies” from about 345-350 million years ago. While they strongly resemble plants, crinoids are actually related to starfish and sea urchins. These limestone or shale slabs are popular as interior decor, in specialized jewelry, and as inspiration for acrylic painting.
This item is an Ammonite, which is a fossilized shell of an extinct marine mollusk that lived millions of years ago. The fossils are often used in jewelry, textile or surface designs and home decor.
Beautiful photos, Julie. Nature is the greatest Master designer of all times.
I try to stay hopeful, but we humans are ruining that master design so quickly.😯
Tragically true, Julie 🙁
Nature’s art always inspires!
Ah, you bet!
Fascinating! I was especially taken by the Sutured Ammonites and their fractal beauty.
Yes. Reminded me of back in the 70s deco.🙂
Well, I am child of the ’70s. 😉
Me, too!
Those are all amazing.
I’ve seen the colorful quartz on dining room tables in home design programs I’ve watched lately.
Really fascinating
How incredibly beautiful and intriguing. What an amazing display and collection.
Its funny, I was never interested in dinosaurs as a kid, but I’ve always loved rocks. 🙂
Me too re rocks. In the end it’s the rocks that tell the story!
Beautiful photos! Thanks for sharing the facts. Few days back itself we visited a forest area to see 15 million years old plant fossils.
They are fascinating, aren’t they? Thanks for stopping by!
Yes absolutely!