Whitby Jet Fossil Gemstone – Genuine Jurassic Lignite Araucaria Fossilised Wood – Rare Black Mineraloid from Whitby UK

Description

This listing is for a 100% genuine Whitby Jet fossil specimen, carefully hand-selected for its quality and authenticity. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact item you will receive. The scale cube in the image is 1cm for accurate size reference. For full dimensions, please see the photo provided.

Whitby Jet is a world-famous gemstone with a unique geological and cultural history. Unlike minerals, Jet is a mineraloid formed from the high-pressure decomposition of ancient wood. It is a variety of lignite, a precursor to coal, and has an organic origin. The fossilised material is derived from wood of the Araucariaceae family, closely related to the living Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana).

This specimen dates back to the Early Jurassic period (Toarcian Age, approximately 182 million years ago). The Whitby region in North Yorkshire, England, is the most famous source of high-quality Jet, often containing pyrite inclusions that create striking golden metallic flecks against the deep black background.

Jet occurs in two forms: hard jet, formed in saltwater environments, and soft jet, formed in freshwater. Both varieties are prized for their smooth texture and ability to take a fine polish, making Whitby Jet a historically popular gemstone used in jewellery, most notably during the Victorian era when it became a symbol of mourning adornment.

Key Details:

• Origin: Whitby, United Kingdom
• Age: Early Jurassic (~182 million years old)
• Material: Fossilised Araucaria wood (Monkey Puzzle Tree family)
• Colour: Jet black (may include natural pyrite inclusions)
• Unique: This is the exact specimen shown – once sold, the listing will be updated with a new piece.
• Authenticity: Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity

Why Collect Whitby Jet?

• Rare organic fossil gemstone with deep geological and cultural significance
• Beautiful collector’s item and display piece
• Connection to the Jurassic world and prehistoric forests
• Highly prized gemstone for jewellery and ornamental use

ACTUAL AS SEEN: You will receive the exact specimen pictured. Please note that colours may vary depending on lighting and device screen settings. Measurements are approximate due to the natural irregular shape of the fossil.