Indonesian Caddisfly Agate Specimen

This colorful agate is comprised of the fossilized larval cases of the caddisfly (Trichoptera), an insect more closely related to moths and butterflies than to the common house fly. The striking tube-shaped forms encased within the agate mass were easily fossilized due to their original structural durability, as opposed to the soft bodies of the larvae, which rarely ever fossilized. The tube forms are colored golden orange to red by their replacement minerals, and they float within a light blue to white agate.

This piece shows solid agate windows on all but one face, with a preponderance of bold orbs in deep gold to ochre hues, a few touches of red agate, and intermittent white to blue agate surrounding the fossils. Some of the golden orbs are actually filled in with red agate, while others show blue agate in the center - incredible! Overall, a gorgeous piece that should cut some absolutely spectacular cabs or slices! In this material the larval casings display as either orbicular or oblong, depending on their orientation. Either way they create a ton of visual interest. 

This is a rough, unpolished specimen. Please observe images closely for flaws, as some degree of that is normal. Pictured wet and dry.

Approximate measurements:

Weight: 634 grams

Height/Width/Depth: 3.7” x 2.75” x 2.5” at widest points

General info: Gemstone Specimens