Fossils such as these abound in Morocco, and are sold at countless roadside stands. The petrified remains of trilobites, anemones, crinoids are quarried and turned into all sorts of goods, some of them quite surprising. Jewelry, for example, are made from fossils that have been mined, cut, and polished to a sheen. Large chunks of stone with several fossils inlaid within it are carved into tubs and bathroom sinks. Of course, many are sold in their natural form, but in any case, they make unique souvenirs. Almost all the fossils quarried in Morocco come from the southeastern region, near Rissani and Erfoud, modern day reminders of the ancient, shallow sea that once covered what is now a vast desert.
Fossils was first published January 24, 2012.
Last 5 posts in Snapshots!
- Beads and Jewelry - March 20th, 2012
- The Shuwaff - March 13th, 2012
- Tea and Tkaout - March 6th, 2012
- Minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque - February 28th, 2012
- To the Souk! - February 21st, 2012
Did you enjoy this weekly Moroccan Snapshot? If so, why not share it with your friends? Leave a comment below to let us know what you think, too!

Discussion