Septarian Stones

Walking the beach is always an enjoyable experience. Finding driftwood is an added bonus. Discovering septarian stones is another bonus . . . along with changing seasons/water/sky, etc. etc. So, what are they?

Septarian stones (nodules) were formed millions of years ago and are found primarily in Southern Utah . . . but also in Ottawa county, Michigan . . . more precisely . . . my hidden, meandering stream!

Decomposing life killed by volcanic eruptions, had a chemical attraction for the sediment around them, forming mud balls. As Lake Michigan changed the balls were left to dry. They cracked and trapped decomposed calcite from shells and fossils A thin wall of calcite was transformed into aragonite separating the heavy clay exteriors from the calcite centers.

The name Septarian is derived from the Latin name, Septem, meaning seven. When cracked the nodules have seven points thereby creating the beautiful design.

For me the natural designs often tell a story or even suggest a magical message. For example the heart. What picture do you see in the other stone?

I incorporate the stones when constructing my "Bird Castles." . . . or just look at them and make up stories!