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 39 mm (1.53 inches) across, which is very small for a crinoid making this a juvenile animal. The fossil consists of a detailed stem with attachment cirri along with some arms and pinnules from the head. It is preserved in calcite and pyrite giving it a subtle golden colour and shine. It was found in two pieces and has been glued back together, as is common with these delicate fossils. These crinoids are very sought after and not easy to find these days, and small juvenile examples like this are very uncommon.
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.