A nice example of an ichthyosaur vertebra fossil from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Lyme Regis, Dorset UK.
The vertebra is matrix free and measures 31 mm (1.2 inches) across, which is a good size for this fossil type. The bone is very well preserved and has been prepared using air abrasive techniques to remove all matrix.
It has very good detail in its preservation and a nice dark colour. The neural and rib facets are present and very well preserved. Overall, it has a very high level of detail.
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.