A good example of a crinoid fossil of the species Pentacrinites fossilis from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Charmouth, Dorset UK.
The fossil measures 85 mm (3.35 inches) across. The fossil consists of a partial crinoid head with flowing arms and pinnules seemingly frozen in time. The fossil has been coated in a thin reversible (soluble) lacquer for protection. This is a very fine example of this fossil type.
Around 196 million years old, 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.