On the occurrence of pyrite in a lichen-like inclusion in Eocene amber (Baltic)

This study demonstrates the morphology and the elemental composition of a fossil embedded in Eocene Baltic amber. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the application of energy dispersive X-ray analyses (EDX) it was possible to distinguish structures which are very similar to lichen-like forms, such as apothecia, pycnidia, spores and aeration pores. The chemical composition of the fossilized spores is mainly iron and sulfur. It is suggested that the sulfur and iron originated from volcanoes situated close to the amber-producing trees during the Eocene. It is further suggested that the spores served as crystallization centres for pyrite formation.