Copal. Agates australis. New Zealand. ...

Description

Copal
Agates australis
New Zealand

This large and well-preserved specimen of Kauri Gum-a form of subfossilized tree resin or Copal-originates from the ancient Agathis australis (Kauri Tree), native to New Zealand. Produced when the tree is wounded, the resin slowly hardens over time into translucent, golden-hued Copal. Unlike fully fossilized Amber, Copal retains a unique luster and organic character, offering a compelling glimpse into the natural history of forest ecosystems. Used extensively by the Maori people, Kauri Gum served practical and cultural purposes: it was chewed as a form of natural gum, used as tinder for fire-starting, and its ashes were employed to make pigment for moko, the traditional facial tattoos. Today, New Zealand Copal is significantly rarer than Baltic Amber, with no new sources available and most remaining examples held in institutional collections. This particular specimen is notably large and visually striking, weighing 589.5 grams, and is marked on the reverse with two historical collection numbers: "MM3795" and "GM33." A superb example of a culturally and scientifically important natural material.
Measurements: 9.00 x 3.75 x 2.75 inches (22.86 x 9.53 x 6.99 cm)

Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern California Collector

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