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 65 mm (2.6 inches) across. The fossil consists of some very detailed attachment cirri from a crinoid, which resemble tentacles. It has an extremely high level of detail down to the smallest parts. It has a natural layer of pyrite on the surface giving it a golden metallic colour and shine. It was found in three pieces and has been repaired back together, as is standard for these delicate crinoid fossils due to the way they come out of the cliffs. 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.