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 65 mm (2.56 inches) across. The fossil consists of multiple stem sections with detailed attachment cirri and a tiny partial head with arms and pinnules exposed. It is preserved in calcite with no pyrite, has been backed with plaster, and has been coated in a thin reversible (soluble) lacquer for protection.
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.