What do you think about this opal?

[Vopros]

Ii is a little (4 cm.) length opal from Lightning Ridge. I wonder what do you make of it surface.

Thanks!

 

Edited August 16 by Vopros

[DPS Ammonite]

Please point out the specific area in question.  Are you asking us what caused the form of the surface? Are you suggesting that it may be a fossil? If so, what kind.

[Fossildude19]

It could have formed around a bryozoan fossil.
That is my best guess.

 

Although, the small holes look a bit more vessicular than bryozoans, and thereby geologic, rather than a fossil. 

 

[Vopros]

On 8/16/2024 at 6:01 AM, Fossildude19 said:

It could have formed around a bryozoan fossil.
That is my best guess.

 

Although, the small holes look a bit more vessicular than bryozoans, and thereby geologic, rather than a fossil. 

 

Thank you for your input. Attached is a microscopic image. Still think these are geological formations?

Edited August 17 by Vopros

[Fossildude19]

59 minutes ago, Vopros said:

Thank you for your input. Attached is a microscopic image. Still think these are geological formations?

 

 

 

 

I'm not a geologist, and don't really bother with minerals.  Not an expert on coral or bryozoans, either.
I can appreciate the item is pretty, but, ...  identifying possible opalized fossils is a bit beyond my wheelhouse.

My answer was my best guesses.

 

 

[Vopros]

And here is what Dr. Elisabeth Smith said about this opal

 

“The 'spotty' area in the microscope image does suggest an organic origin but I really don't know what the spots represent. Perhaps eggs, perhaps seeds, perhaps the knobbly texture of conifer bark or fern stem.

None of this is certain. 

Best regards”