A nice example of three fused ichthyosaur vertebrae fossils from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Lyme Regis, Dorset UK.
The vertebrae are fused together (which occurred during the fossilisation process) and the largest measures 38 mm (1.5 inches), with the total size of the fossil being 45 mm (1.8 inches) across at the widest point. The bones are well preserved and have been prepared using air abrasive techniques. The central bone is complete and the other two are partially preserved.
It has good detail in its preservation and a nice light brown colour. The bone have been geologically distorted, which would have happened during the fossilisation process.
Articulated marine reptile bones are hard to find and very sought after.
These fossils were first found by pioneering Victorian fossils hunters like Mary Anning. Ichthyosaur bones are very popular fossils from this location.
Around 198 million years old (Sinemurian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.