Petoskey stones have a captivating history. Found only in the state of Michigan, this agate-like stone is estimated to have been quarried since the prehistoric days of the Ottawa and Chippewa nations. In the early 19th century, settlers to the area noticed that the small stones lining the beaches of Lake Huron were unlike anything they had ever seen. After years of collecting and trading the stones, Petoskey stones eventually made their way around the world.
Measuring in at three to six inches, Petoskey stones are easily identifiable by their unique hexagonal pattern, resembling an interconnected tiled surface. visible on their naturally smoothed surfaces. The unique pattern created by their coral fossils is caused by the stones being “worn away by glaciers in the Pleistocene era,” according to James Chardon, a gemologist at American Gem and Mineral Works. “These fossilized corals were compressed and preserved by sediment under pressure and heat,” explains Chardon. The intense heat and pressure created a beautiful array of natural shapes and hues.
These stones’ classic look isn’t their only draw. Through the eyes of some, the Petoskey stone holds a deeper meaning. According to the Michigan History Center, these stones represent the beauty of the Great Lakes’ diverse flora and fauna, and the enchanting history of the Michigan shoreline. Kenneth Kuzminski, a local advocate of the stones, explains: “You have to have respect for the incredible history these stones have. When someone finds one, it literally takes them millions of years back.”
Like many beaches in Michigan, visitors may find Petoskey stones on the Lake Huron shoreline. Many, however, do not realize they must search further out in the lake. Realistically, Petoskey stones are more likely to be found underwater, explains Stephen Marienau, a professor of geology at Lake Superior State University. “Currents from the lake – especially along the eastern side of the state – are stronger and more likely to carry the stones away from the shore and deeper into the lake,” shares Marienau.
But getting out on the lake can seem daunting, so many take the low-risk option and stick to combing the shoreline. Fortunately, there are other ways to find Petoskey stones without getting wet. According to Marienau, “Visitors with a keen eye and some patience could be successful in searching the gravel along the highway medians,” noting that some of the smaller stones may find their way onto roads and highways via creeks and rivers. Alternatively, special tools could be utilized, such as a sifting device to detect small stones in the gravel.
No matter the method, the thrill of discovery can draw many away from their daily routines and into the outdoors in search of this historic gem. Petoskey stone hunting not only offers a great chance to explore Michigan’s often-overlooked shorelines, but it also allows anyone who finds one to transport themselves back in time.
Methodology
In order to locate a Petoskey stone in Lake Huron, it is important to adopt the correct approach. Firstly, one can search on foot along the shallow, rocky margins of the lake. Optimal success requires finding areas where the lake levels are low and you can physically see the bottom. If you are able to make visual contact with the lakebed, you will be able to spot stones more easily and identify the unique pattern that characterizes Petoskey stones. In more extreme weather, risky undertakings such as wading can be an option, though in such cases the right equipment should be utilized.
Those who are willing to invest more can employ further tools, such as mesh sifting buckets and screens, in their quest to dig out their very own Petoskey stone. These tools allow you to sift through sand or crushable rocks, such as gravel or limestone, from which you can sometimes recover whole Petoskey stones. While the labor and time invested in this type of search may not seem particularly enjoyable, it is undeniably the most successful way of locating Petoskey stones in Lake Huron.
Water scouring systems are another great tool for the determined searcher in search of a Petoskey stone. Through siphoning or recirculation systems – generally truck or boat based options – one can generate a powerful current that effectively washes away sand and gravel from the lakebed, thereby exposing any pieces beneath. Such a setup requires a considerable effort, however, both in terms of cost and labor.
Uniqueness of Petoskey Stones
Petoskey stones are unique in that they are the only stones that display the distinctive hexagonal patterning. Even the most simplistic shells, like those of the common whelk found in the waters of Lake Huron, are not truly hexagonal. Furthermore, while the rock itself is derived from coral of the Paleozoic era, it is still characterized by the distinct hexagonal patterning even after millions of years of erosion and weathering. Accordingly, anyone who has chanced upon a Petoskey stone will recognize it from a glance.
What’s more, these stones are also quite rare. In essence, Petoskey stones are only found in one part of the world and even then, there is no guarantee that one will find a stone. Therefore, the lucky finder of a Petoskey stone from Lake Huron facilitates a special and rather unique tale, characterized by the long-ago history and millions of years of geological activity which have lead to the finding.
Gifting a Petoskey Stone
Finding a Petoskey stone can be an exciting and memorable experience, but why not make it even more special by turning it into a personalized gift? Whether as a token of love, friendship or appreciation, a Petoskey stone makes a thoughtful and unusual present. For example, one could traverse the beach and search for a Petoskey stone with a friend, before gifting it to them as a remembrance of their shared experience. The possibilities are endless.
Alternatively, those seeking a more creative approach have the option of incorporating them into jewelry making. Be it pendants or earrings, Petoskey stone jewelry adds a historic touch to any ensemble, inspired by the glory of the ancient stones. Even if you don’t possess the skills or supplies to make a one-of-a-kind piece on your own, there are plenty of great options available online.
Audience
Petoskey stone hunting isn’t just for geologists, beachcombers, or amateur rock hounds – these unique stones also attract a wide array of folks from all backgrounds and ages. “Between the imagery and the history, it’s understandable why so many people like to experience the adventure and feel a connection to the forgotten past,” shares Marienau. Visitors and aspiring collectors come from around the world to scour the beaches of Lake Huron, according to Bob Kauffman, owner of a local Michigan rock shop. “Folks from Europe and Australia especially find a certain beauty and connection in the stones and have started collecting,” explains Kauffman.
Commercialization
Although the Petoskey stone is far from becoming an endangered species, the number of stones that are available on the market has decreased drastically due to the increased demand. This is mostly the result of the commercialization of the stones. According to the Michigan History Center, in past decades local vendors and buyers contributed to the swift extraction of what quickly became a sought-after natural resource, emphasizing the importance of sustainability.
This shift has caused quite a stir among advocates of the Petoskey stone. An act of preservation of the preservation of the stones has been in effect since the mid-1980’s, yet the commercial collection and sale of Petoskey stones remains a contentious matter. Advocates like Michigan native Kenneth Kuzminski have expressed their concerns about the long-term implications that could arise from the commercialization of the stones, thus impacting their availability for generations to come.
Finding a Petoskey stone on the shore of Lake Huron can be a gratifying experience for any avid rock hunter or beach stroller. The allure of these ancient stones can draw people back in time and out on the lake, searching for a glimpse of Michigan’s ancient beauty.
