“The most beautiful stones have been tossed by the wind, washed by the water and polished to brilliance by life’s strongest storms.” – unknown
I have always enjoyed photographing interesting looking rocks. They have Rocks such a variety of unique colors, patterns and shapes based on where they were formed. Looking through my photo archives here are a few favorites taken over the years.
I will begin with the Natural Bridge in Aruba, one of the largest of its kind several years ago. It measured approximately 25 feet high (7.6 meters) and 100 feet long (30 meters. This rocky land formation was originally part of an ancient cave and made from coral limestone. Sadly, it collapsed during Hurricane Katrina in September 2005.
The Lone Cypress Tree in California stands atop a granite headland overlooking Carmel Bay off the 17 Mile Drive. As a seedling it took root in this granite stone during the 1750’s. Fortunately, this picture was taken before a storm in 2019 took out about a third of the tree by snapping off one of the branches. Over the years it became a symbol of resilience and perseverance despite harsh environmental conditions. The tree continues to be a popular tourist site and is the logo for a well-known California company.
These large coral rocks are prominent on the beaches in Aruba along with the Divi Divi trees. Since it is a volcanic island there are many different types of rock formations almost everywhere.
Arpoador Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is well-known for its large Arpoador rocks which jet out into the ocean.
Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts was built on top of volcanic Andesite rock and is designed as a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. Construction began in 1690 and continued for 100 years before completion and the fortress was built out of basalt blocks and local limestone.
WThis is one of many working granite quarries around Beebe, Quebec Canada.
Now, closer to home! The header image shows a few of the many colorful river stones found at the mouth of Little River Estuary in Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve in Maine.
An early morning picture of the Atlantic Ocean in Wells gives you an idea of how lovely and also rocky most of the beaches are in Maine.
Hope you enjoyed seeing these pictures! A big thanks goes to Donna of Wind Kisses for selecting such an interesting topic.
When looking through archived pictures showing rocks from our travels, I was reminded of what a vital role rocks play in our lives and how they can be seen almost everywhere. As Donna said in her post, “Rocks aren’t just for the nature lovers in us. Manmade jetties are protective barriers for our shorelines, and offer pedestrian access to those who want to feel like they can walk on water. Our homes keep the cold out. Rock walls keep the cows in, and churches keep the faith.” (Be sure to check out her post by clicking on this link.)
“Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of earth are never alone or weary of life.” – Rachel Carson
Beautiful post, Sylvia. I always love your serene style of photography.
Well, Sylvia, it is hard to have only one favorite in this fabulous gallery. These images are gorgeous. I especially like the Aruba rock and, naturally, Arpoador in Brazil. Great post!
Hi Egidio, couldn’t help but think of you when posting the picture of Arpoador Beach. My husband and I had a wonderful trip to Rio, so much to see and do and everyone was delightful to be with!
I’m so glad you two had a good time. That’s great!
Well done Sylvia. Excellent variety – you’re fortunate to have the rocky coast of Maine to draw from! Loved the opener but sad about the rock bridge’s destruction.
Tina LOL, we certainly don’t have many rocks at home on Kiawah!! The river rocks (header) turned out to be a big surprise when stumbling on them while hiking with the kids. 😊
GREAT photos. Always a pleasure to view, especially enlarged. LOVE that header photo. Excellent.
Hi John, thank you for your kind comments!! Interestingly, I was really surprised to see these colorful stones (in the header) because they looked like the ones I’ve bought many times to use in decorative arrangements. They were everywhere in that area.
Sylvia, I enjoyed all of these wonderful rock images. It saddens me to hear that the natural bridge in Aruba was destroyed by a hurricane. Great post!
Hi Beth, so glad you liked seeing these pictures! On another note, it was sad seeing what was left of the natural bridge in Aruba after the hurricane destroyed it, all of the walk over part was gone.😪 I have not located that photo, not sure I want to see it.
So many wonderful places to explore through your lens Sylvia. What a shame the arch collapsed during Katrina. What a beautiful spot for watching the day pass by. I love the Divi Divi trees growing amidst the coral, the large rocks in Brazil and the shoreline of home sweet home. I am drawing a blank of the California tree’s logo. I know we should all know it.. wonderful post, Sylvia.
LOL, Donna I thought of you when posting the two pictures from Maine!! Glad you enjoyed seeing all of these, they brought back many good memories.
About the logo of the Cypress Tree, I googled “pebble beach resorts logo” after reading they are the company who have the copyright. If you can’t locate, I’ll send the logo picture I found.
I found it. Who knew the logo came from the tree. You did. lol. Interesting and yes, always feel like I am going home with some of your posts.