A stunning example of a crinoid fossil of the species Pentacrinites fossilis from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Charmouth, Dorset UK.
The fossil measures 51 mm (2 inches) across. The fossil consists of multiple stem sections with incredibly well-preserved attachment cirri and an uncommon calyx. It is preserved in limestone with no pyrite. It has been coated with a soluble (removable) lacquer for protection. These crinoids are very sought after and not easy to find these days. This is an unusually detailed example with the level of preservation being immaculate to the smallest degree.
Around 196 million years old (Sinemurian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.
Crinoids are echinoderms closely related to starfish and sea urchins, and have been around for many hundreds of millions of years. They still live today in the deep seas around the world.