Petoskey Stone
Jewelry Guide
Discover Michigan's prehistoric treasure - 350 million years of history transformed into stunning, wearable art.
What is a Petoskey Stone?
The Petoskey stone is a fossil coral that lived approximately 350 million years ago during the Devonian period, when Michigan was located near the equator and covered by a warm, shallow tropical sea. The distinctive hexagonal pattern you see in these stones is actually the fossilized remains of Hexagonaria percarinata, a colonial rugose coral.
Each "eye" in the pattern represents an individual coral polyp - tiny soft-bodied animals that lived together in massive colonies, similar to modern coral reefs. When the corals died, their calcium carbonate skeletons were buried in sediment and slowly replaced by silica, preserving their intricate structure for hundreds of millions of years.
Today, these ancient treasures wash up along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, gifts from the glaciers that carved the Great Lakes and scattered these fossils across northern Michigan. The name "Petoskey" comes from the Ottawa word meaning "rays of the rising sun" - a fitting description for the stone's radiating pattern.
Polished Petoskey stone showing the distinctive hexagonal coral pattern
Petoskey stones found along Michigan's Lake Michigan shoreline
350 Million Years Old
Petoskey stones are fossilized colonies of Hexagonaria percarinata, a coral that lived during the Devonian period when Michigan was covered by a warm, shallow sea.
Michigan's State Stone
Officially designated as Michigan's state stone in 1965, the Petoskey stone is named after the city of Petoskey in northern Michigan.
Distinctive Pattern
The hexagonal 'eye' pattern you see is actually the fossilized remains of coral polyps - each 'eye' was once a living coral animal.
Found Only Here
While similar fossils exist elsewhere, the specific Petoskey stone variety is found almost exclusively along Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula shorelines.
Types of Petoskey Stone Jewelry
From everyday pieces to statement accessories, Petoskey stone makes stunning jewelry that connects you to millions of years of Michigan history.
Handcrafted Petoskey stone pendant showcasing the distinctive coral fossil pattern
Pendants & Necklaces
The most popular way to wear Petoskey stone. Cabochon-cut pendants showcase the distinctive coral pattern beautifully.
Rings
Statement rings featuring polished Petoskey stone make unique conversation pieces and meaningful Michigan keepsakes.
Earrings
From simple studs to elegant drops, Petoskey stone earrings add a touch of Michigan heritage to any outfit.
Bracelets
Beaded Petoskey bracelets or single stone cuff styles - perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Cufflinks & Tie Pins
Unique accessories for those who want to carry a piece of Michigan history with formal attire.
Metaphysical Properties
Beyond their natural beauty, many believe Petoskey stones carry powerful metaphysical properties rooted in their ancient origins.
Protection
Said to create a shield against negative energies and emotional harm
Emotional Healing
Believed to help process difficult emotions and past traumas
Third Eye Activation
Associated with enhancing intuition and psychic awareness
Grounding
Connects to ancient Earth energy, promoting stability and calm
Working with Petoskey Stone
To activate your Petoskey stone's energy, hold it during meditation while visualizing the ancient ocean from which it came. Many practitioners use it for past-life work or to connect with ancestral wisdom. Its water-origin energy pairs well with emotional healing practices.
Where to Find Petoskey Stones
Planning a stone hunting trip? These locations in northern Michigan are known for excellent Petoskey stone finds.
Pro Tips for Stone Hunting
- • Best Time: After spring storms when waves uncover fresh stones
- • Wet the stones: The pattern is much more visible when wet
- • Look for the eyes: Even small stones can show the hexagonal pattern
- • Morning light: Early morning or cloudy days reduce glare on the stones
- • Check crevices: Stones collect in rocky areas and between large boulders
Caring for Your Petoskey Jewelry
Do
- • Store separately in soft cloth
- • Clean with mild soap and water
- • Dry thoroughly after wearing
- • Apply a light mineral oil to enhance pattern
Don't
- • Expose to harsh chemicals
- • Use ultrasonic cleaners
- • Wear while swimming
- • Leave in direct sunlight for extended periods
Polish Tip
For a beautiful shine, polish with a soft cloth and a tiny amount of coconut oil. This enhances the coral pattern without damaging the stone.
Own a Piece of Michigan History
Each Petoskey stone is unique - a one-of-a-kind fossil that's been waiting 350 million years to find its way to you.
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