A stunning and rare example of a crinoid fossil of the species Pentacrinites fossilis from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Charmouth, Dorset UK.
The fossil measures 150 mm (5.9 inches) across, which is a good size for a crinoid fossil from this location. It contains multiple crinoids (at least 6) preserved lying on top of one another. Several represent complete animals, displaying the full stem with attachment cirri and heads with complete crowns of arms and pinnules. They are unusually small for crinoids from this genus, and so are most likely juveniles, which are even rarer to find in good condition The detail in the fossils is amazing down to the microscopic level. It has a thin layer of pyrite on the surface which gives the fossil a wonderful golden colour and shine. The reverse side has been coated in plaster to make it strong and stable, which has been painted the same colour as the rock from which the fossil came. Finding a crinoid fossil from this location with this many individuals as well-preserved as this is very hard nowadays, and these beautiful examples don't come up for sale very often. A rare opportunity to own a very sought after and uncommon fossil from this iconic location.
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.