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 130 mm (5.1 inches) across, which is a very good size for this fossil type. The fossil consists of multiple crinoid heads preserved running across one another with great three-dimensional detail. It is beautifully preserved with a high level of detail in the arms and pinnules and is preserved in calcite with pyrite on the surface giving it a metallic shine. On the back of the plate, there are multiple 3D crinoid stems and a very rare calyx (mouth plate). Many of the stem sections show off the five-pointed star-shaped cross section that gives this genus its name. It has been coated with a soluble (removable) varnish for protection). These crinoid heads are rare and not often offered for sale. This is a truly one-off example.
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.