Spiky Flint Specimen Grey Chalk Cretaceous Branscombe Dorset Fossil Natural Silica Nodule Collector Display with COA

Spiky Flint – Grey Chalk Subgroup Specimen, Cretaceous, Branscombe Dorset

This genuine Spiky Flint specimen from Branscombe, Dorset is a striking natural silica nodule formed within the Grey Chalk Subgroup during the Cretaceous Period, approximately 100–66 million years ago. Flint is one of Britain’s most iconic geological materials, created through complex marine sedimentary processes in ancient chalk seas. The unusual spiky, irregular surface texture of this piece makes it an especially eye-catching collector specimen.

You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photographs. Full sizing is available in the listing photos. This is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card.

This specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 27 March 2025, and has been cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to ensure it is stable and ready for display.

Geological Identity – Flint from the Grey Chalk Subgroup

Flint is a variety of microcrystalline quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂), commonly classified as a type of chert. It forms as nodules and bands within chalk and limestone deposits, particularly those laid down in warm, shallow marine environments.

The Grey Chalk Subgroup represents part of the Upper Cretaceous sedimentary sequence of southern England. These chalk deposits accumulated from the skeletal remains of countless microscopic marine organisms, creating thick carbonate platforms across what is now Dorset and the wider UK.

Within these chalk beds, silica-rich fluids later migrated and concentrated, replacing carbonate material and forming flint nodules over long geological timescales.

Formation Process & Natural Morphology

Flint nodules form through diagenesis, the process of chemical and physical changes occurring in sediments after deposition. Silica derived from sponge spicules and other siliceous organisms dissolved into seawater and pore fluids, later re-precipitating as microcrystalline quartz.

The distinctive “spiky” form of this specimen reflects natural growth, dissolution patterns, and the irregular boundaries between silica and surrounding chalk matrix. Such textures can develop where flint formed around cavities, burrows, or organic structures within the sediment.

Flint surfaces may show:

• Sharp protrusions and nodular points
• Natural cortex textures from chalk contact
• Dark grey to black silica interior
• Occasional lighter weathered patches

Each piece is completely unique, shaped by ancient marine chemistry and later coastal erosion.

Locality – Branscombe, Dorset Coast

Branscombe lies along England’s famous Jurassic Coast region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular exposures of Mesozoic geology. Although the name highlights Jurassic strata, the coastline also reveals important Cretaceous chalk deposits.

Flint from Dorset is historically significant, both geologically and culturally, as it has been used for tools, building, and ornamentation since prehistoric times. Collecting naturally weathered flint specimens from this coastline provides a tangible connection to Britain’s ancient seabeds and coastal geological heritage.

Collecting, Display & Educational Value

Spiky flint specimens are highly appealing to collectors because of their sculptural forms and strong link to classic British geology. This piece is ideal for:

• UK mineral and rock collections
• Geological teaching and study
• Natural history displays
• Coastal fossil and chalk formation enthusiasts
• Unique gifts for collectors of British specimens

In spiritual traditions, flint is traditionally associated with grounding and protection; such interpretations are cultural and belief-based rather than scientific or medical claims.

Authenticity & Presentation

• Genuine Spiky Flint (microcrystalline quartz) specimen
• Geological Age: Cretaceous Period
• Formation: Grey Chalk Subgroup
• Locality: Branscombe, Dorset, England
• Discovered by Alister and Alison on 27 March 2025
• Cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison
• Exact specimen shown – you will receive this piece
• Includes Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card
• Full sizing available in listing photographs

A carefully chosen Dorset flint specimen showcasing millions of years of chalk sea geology and a truly distinctive natural spiky form for collectors and enthusiasts.