Description: MADAGASCAN COPAL WITH INSECT INCLUSIONS For sale is a nice piece of copal from Madagascar containing a multitude of insects, including wasps, nematocera, at least 3 spiders and others. I haven't been able to photograph every single inclusion so what you see is only part of what you can find in this piece. What is Madagascan Copal? Madagascan Copal is a type of hardened resin found in parts of Madagascar formed from the resin of trees of the hymenaea verrucosa a tree belonging to the same genus as the extinct hymenaea mexicana and the hymenaea protera trees responsible for Mexican and Dominican amber respecitively, and of the as yet unidentified hymenaea tree responsible for Ethiopian amber. Unlike those amber types, Madagascan copal is much more recent in age, measured in centuries rather than millions of years. Some specimens have even contained radioactive ceasium isotopes, suggesting that they were formed after 1944 when open air atomic testings started to contaminate the Earth's atmosphere with radioactive material. Unlike amber, copal has not had the length of time needed to fully polymerise and is therefore still full of volatile compounds. Acetone will create a very sticky spot wheras amber is more resistant (older ambers like Burmite more so than younger ones like Dominican). Although Madagascan copal is comparatively recent in age, it nevertheless contains some fascinating inclusions and is quite well sought after as a result. NOTE: Madadgascan copals, like all copals, are particularly vulnerable to exposure, so it is highly recommened that they are kept away from exposure to strong light and kept in sealed containers when not being examined. Polishing with turtle wax or similar silicon based waxes also offers protection.OTHER ITEMS FOR SALE I also sell different types of amber, fossils and related items. Please check out my other listings for pieces to suit all tastes and budgets! Particulars Size: See Photos Origin: Madagascar Age: Sub recent All items guaranteed genuine! Please see my other listings for more great offers. If you are buying from outside the UK please be aware of customs fees/restrictions that may be applicable.
Price: 65 GBP
Location: Lytham St. Annes
End Time: 2024-12-22T18:51:51.000Z
Shipping Cost: 4.38 GBP
Product Images
Item Specifics
Return postage will be paid by: Buyer
Returns Accepted: Returns Accepted
After receiving the item, your buyer should cancel the purchase within: 30 days
Sub-Type: Amber
Type: Fossils
Shape: Natural
Country/Region of Manufacture: Madagascar
Finish: Polished
