Ancient World

Opalized crab claw: How do opalized fossils form? 5

Opalized crab claw: How do opalized fossils form?

Opalized fossils are extraordinary treasures that form when the conditions are right for opal formation. The burial of bones, shells, or pinecones in sand or clay can lead to the opalization process, where silica replaces the original organic material, creating a stunning fossil replica. These opalized fossils showcase the captivating beauty of opal and provide a window into the ancient world.
El Tajín: The lost city of the "Thunder" and a mysterious people 8

El Tajín: The lost city of the “Thunder” and a mysterious people

In approximately 800 BC, before the rise of the Aztec empire, a society in southern Mexico built this wondrous city. Who they were, however, still remains a mystery. The city remained lost for centuries, hidden by the tropical jungle, until it was quite literally stumbled upon by a government official.