possible toe bone, concretion, rock

[Roberta NJ CA]

I found this is amongst other bones, rocks, and fossils found in Scotts Valley and didn't think much of it, until I found a similar picture in a book, "The Practical Paleontologist" author Steve Parker (highly recommend for amateurs like myself). 

 

 

 

I couldn't get the whole message on film, but it says "The remains of several similar animals have been discovered.  This is the toe bone of the same creature."  So here's the book pics:

 

[Roberta NJ CA]

Heres the book pic:

 

[Miocene_Mason]

I’d say it’s a weathered stone (perhaps a carbonate rock like limestone) 

[Fossildude19]

Sorry, but I have to agree.

I'm not seeing any bone texture to the item. 

Also, while the general shape is the same, I don't see any of the articular surfaces on your item.

Regards,

[Roberta NJ CA]

Thanks for your input.  I thought it was a stretch, but hey you never know....   I hope, one day, to be able to post something of more interest here.  I appreciate the patience!  

 

Roberta

[Miocene_Mason]

41 minutes ago, Roberta NJ CA said:

Thanks for your input.  I thought it was a stretch, but hey you never know....   I hope, one day, to be able to post something of more interest here.  I appreciate the patience!  

 

Roberta

In no way should you let a few stones demoralize you. Remember, better to have picked up a rock than have left a fossil! Keep looking! Where there is limestone, normally fossils are not far...

[KimTexan]

What ever happened to the bone and rock conglomerate that looked a bit like concrete? It definitely looked like bone. That was worth posting. Did you ever get around to removing some of the matrix?

A dental pick and brushes can only get you so far. I have to go low budget and use a Dremel with diamond tip attachments. The steel ones just don’t cut it with rock and wear down too quickly.

I don’t know if you have Harbor Freight stores up there, but they have an small inexpensive rotary tool for $9.99. The attachment tips are reasonably priced too.

[Roberta NJ CA]

Hi Kim and thanks for the info re: Dremel diamond tip attachments.   My fear when you using them is I don't know how far to go without destroying the piece.  You're so right, Picky tools and brushes are not only labor intensive but can't break through the matrix (not to mention the damage to my hands and fingers!).  I'm going look around online, and if someone knows of a site that explains the correct way to use a dremel of that type for the type of work, Please let me know! I Thanks again Kim, always informative in your posts...

 

Roberta

[Roberta NJ CA]

And thanks WhodamanHD for your words of encouragement! By the way, I've always loved your quote!!!

 

Roberta

[Tidgy's Dad]

Very nice attitude, Roberta! 

We never give up! 

Next time, next time! 

[Roberta NJ CA]

Thanks Tigdy's Dad!  Your enthusiasm is contagious.... I shall try, try again!

[KimTexan]

On 12/21/2017 at 4:04 PM, Roberta NJ CA said:

Hi Kim and thanks for the info re: Dremel diamond tip attachments.   My fear when you using them is I don't know how far to go without destroying the piece.  You're so right, Picky tools and brushes are not only labor intensive but can't break through the matrix (not to mention the damage to my hands and fingers!).  I'm going look around online, and if someone knows of a site that explains the correct way to use a dremel of that type for the type of work, Please let me know! I Thanks again Kim, always informative in your posts...

 

Roberta

Here is a pic of tips I use. They work well on most any material.

When working with a lot of matrix you don’t have to worry too much initially about getting too close. When you get closer you have to switch to finer tips. I have an engraving set with very fine tips for when I get closer. Then I switch to pick, wood carving tools (you can get a set at Harbor Freight for about $5) or water and brush depending upon the matrix.

Sometimes I’ll use the diamond tips without the Dremel for more control when I get closer.

Things you should know:

Magnification- One thing that is very helpful is some form of magnification to wear when you get close. Or you can use the magnifying glass on a stand.

Mask - Also, you generate a lot of dust when using the bits, especially the first 2 bits. The dust should not be breathed in. You could easily set yourself up for COPD or some form of pulminary fibrosis. I use an N95 mask, which you can buy at most hardwear stores.

Blast cabinet - It would be best to have a blast cabinet to prep in or do it in a place you don’t mind dust coating everything, but that’s if you do a lot of it.

I do quite a bit of prep, but don’t have a blast cabinet, but wish I did.

 

I also have a set of these bits below. I don’t recommend them for hard material. They tend to suddenly bounce off whatever I may be prepping, which can be dangerous. I’ve come close to hitting myself a few times.

Also, I wear glasses, but if you don’t I highly recommend some form of protection so chips don’t fly in your eyes.