Do you sometimes have the daydream of coming across an ancient treasure, a fossil remains of an animal that lived on the Earth millions of years ago? There is no better experience than finding a dinosaur fossil. The endeavor of fossil hunting is not one exclusive to paleontologists; you can do it, too, provided with the right knowledge and tools.
Knowing Dinosaur Fossils
Dinosaur fossils are well-preserved ancient reptile remains. They can be in the form of bones, teeth, footprints, eggs, and even a skin impression. The fossilization process is a series of events that takes millions of years. When a dinosaur dies, its body may be buried by sediment. Over time, the organic material of the dinosaur decays, leaving behind a mineralized replica of the original structure.
Where to Find Dinosaur Fossils?
Sedimentary rock usually hosts dinosaur fossils. Such rocks often form in ancient riverbeds, lakes, and oceans. Some of the most famous sites for dinosaur fossils include the Badlands National Park in South Dakota, the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, and the Morrison Formation in the American West.
Tips for Fossil Hunting
If you're out there on a fossil-hunting expedition, these are some things to keep in mind:
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Research the local area geology and fossil sites before you go. That's probably going to increase your chances of finding something of interest.
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Make sure you have the necessary permits to search for fossils. Lots of public lands will require these. Apply for the permits well in advance of your trip.
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Fossil hunting is slow-going and hard work. So enjoy the process and be patient.
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Use the right tools in fossil hunting. Use a hammer, chisel, and magnifying glass.
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At all times handle fossils with respect and care; never damage or disturb a fossil site.
Buying Dinosaur Fossils
If you cannot find a fossil of your own, you can also purchase one. There are many dealers and sellers that are selling real dinosaur fossils online. You must get a certificate of authenticity while purchasing a fossil. Thus, you will be able to procure an authentic specimen.
Often, the purchasing or selling of dinosaur fossils is regulated and complicated by the law, especially for significant or rare fossils. In most countries, dinosaur fossils for sale, collecting, and trading without proper permits or licenses are strictly forbidden.
Genuine Dinosaur Fossils Online
Today, with the internet, it is easier than ever to buy dinosaur fossils. Many quality dealers offer a variety of fossil pieces, from small teeth to full skeletons. When buying online, one should research the online seller and read customer reviews.
Conclusion
It indeed would be an experience not soon forgotten to discover a dinosaur fossil. To be a seasoned fossil hunter or just a beginner, the opportunities are endless in exploring the ancient world. By following these tips and doing some research, one will be able to increase the chances of discovering his own piece of history.
At Fossil Age Minerals we can ensure that our sources are accurate and we can verify that the specimens we provide are authentic. If the artifact is a reproduction - which should be rare in fossils - it will be clearly labeled as such. We guarantee all of our material to be genuine, unless otherwise stated.