"Imprints of Time," an exhibition of fossils and biological specimens (Teng Shengzhi/Xinhua Daily)
The Middle School Affiliated to Jinling High School recently hosted an exhibition of fossils and biological specimens, marking the first time the school hosted a solo exhibition for a student. The two-week exhibition showcased over 1,000 pieces, all collected by 12-year-old student Kong Yihan.
Kong was delighted to introduce his collection to students, such as the fluorite that glows when illuminated by a flashlight and a relatively complete fossil of a Xiangxiia, which is the largest trilobite in China and can reach up to 45 cm long. Kong explained that the precious coral he found in Chaohu, Anhui Province resembles a ram's horn but is actually coral.
Kong Yihan
“The sheer diversity of life forms on Earth continues to astonish me." Kong recalled that his fascination with fossils originated from a Yuhua stone he stumbled upon when he was four years old. His teacher then informed him that the pattern inside was the remains of a sea lily’s root, sparking his passion for fossils.
Kong’s parents are not paleontologists, but they have always been supportive of his interests. Every winter and summer vacation, he and his parents would don their outdoor gear and embark on "treasure hunts" with a geological hammer.
Over the past eight years, they have explored provinces including Guizhou, Yunnan, Hunan, Sichuan, Guangdong, and Guangxi, in search of paleontological resources. Now, an entire room in their home is filled with collections such as Yuhua stones from Liuhe District in Nanjing, limestone from the mountains of Hunan, amber from kaolin mines in Fujian, and Redlichia fossils from Maotian Mountain in Yunnan. “Fossils are truly magical, allowing me to journey through time," said Kong.
Kong Yihan (2nd right) introduces the fossils to his classmates.
“I am captivated by the diverse wonders of nature, especially insects and rocks. Insects are like warriors, with robust exoskeletons and extraordinary flying abilities. Rocks exhibit unique textures and colors that showcase the beauty of nature,” Kong said.
The school’s teachers recognized Kong’s dedication to fossil collection during the freshman orientation. Subsequently, the school supported the exhibition titled "Imprints of Time", which not only displayed Kong’s collection of fossils, minerals, and insect specimens but also featured informative display boards to enhance scientific understanding.
"We decided to use this opportunity to showcase student talent and encourage greater participation in hands-on learning activities," said his class teacher, You Mengyan.
